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Calgary Flames Outshined by Buffalo Sabres' Offensive Onslaught

The Calgary Flames, with a record of 0-1, faced off against the Buffalo Sabres, who now boast a 1-0 record after securing a 4-1 victory. The game was held at the Scotiabank Saddledome in front of an attendance of 16,497 fans.


Mar 24, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf (32) sprays water in his face during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

The home team Flames struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match. Despite outshooting the Sabres with 33 attempts on goal compared to their opponent's 29, they only managed to convert one shot into a score. The lone goal for the Flames came during a powerplay in the second period and was accompanied by two assists. However, this momentary spark wasn't enough as they failed to capitalize on their other powerplay opportunity.


On defense, Calgary's goaltender made an impressive total of 25 saves but allowed two goals during even strength play and conceded two additional empty-net goals near the end of the third period. The defensive effort also saw them block 16 shots from reaching their netminder.


Mar 24, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Buffalo Sabres left wing Jeff Skinner (53) skates with the puck during the warmup period against the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

In contrast, Buffalo's offense proved to be more efficient with four goals scored on fewer shots. They demonstrated remarkable accuracy with a shooting percentage of fourteen percent compared to Calgary's three percent. Two empty-net goals sealed their victory late in the third period after already establishing dominance earlier in that same frame where they scored three times.


Buffalo’s goaltending was formidable; saving all but one shot for an impeccable save percentage and contributing significantly to their win. Their special teams did not contribute directly to scoring but maintained discipline by only allowing one powerplay goal against them despite being shorthanded five times.


Mar 24, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Owen Power (25) shoots the puck against the Calgary Flames during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

The next challenge for the Calgary Flames will be an away game against Chicago Blackhawks at United Center in Chicago on March 26 at 7:30 PM Mountain Time Zone (MT). Fans can catch this upcoming match broadcasted live on ESPN+ via internet streaming or through NBCS-CHI television network coverage.

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