Opinion
3 min read

Calgary Flames to Quench Anaheim Ducks' Flight at Scotiabank Saddledome

As the Calgary Flames prepare to host the Anaheim Ducks at the Scotiabank Saddledome, fans are eager for what promises to be an electrifying matchup. The Flames, coming off a mixed bag of recent performances, have shown both resilience and areas needing improvement that could influence their approach against the Ducks.


Dec 21, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA;  Calgary Flames goaltender Jacob Markstrom (25) defends the goal against Anaheim Ducks center Ryan Strome (16) and right wing Frank Vatrano (77) during the second period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter with the Washington Capitals on March 19th, despite a valiant effort, the Flames fell short with a final score of 2-5. The team's goaltending was solid with a save percentage rounding up to 100 percent but was overshadowed by defensive lapses that led to four goals against during even strength play. On offense, they managed an impressive 36 shots but converted only two into goals – reflecting a shooting percentage of six percent which is below what fans have come to expect from this fiery squad.


However, it wasn't all gloom for CGY; they bounced back in spectacular fashion against the Montreal Canadiens on March 17th. Dominating with five goals and maintaining an equally impressive defensive front that allowed only two goals against them showcased their ability to control both ends of the ice when they click as a unit. Their shooting percentage spiked dramatically in this game reaching eighteen percent – three times higher than in their loss just days before.


Dec 21, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA;  Anaheim Ducks left wing Brock McGinn (26) and right wing Jakob Silfverberg (33) fight for the puck against Calgary Flames center Adam Ruzicka (63) and center Dillon Dube (29) during the first period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

The most recent performance by CGY came as quite a shocker; after two scoreless periods against Vegas Golden Knights on March 15th, they erupted in the third period netting four goals and securing victory with minimal damage defensively – allowing just one goal throughout sixty minutes of play.


The upcoming game presents an opportunity for CGY to capitalize on their strengths while addressing weaknesses exposed in past games. The powerplay has been inconsistent; while it shone brightly against Montreal converting two out of three opportunities into goals, it faltered without scoring during three chances versus Washington Capitals. Improving special teams will be crucial especially considering ANA's potential vulnerabilities.


Dec 21, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA;  Anaheim Ducks goaltender Lukas Dostal (1) and center Sam Carrick (39)defends the goal during the first period against the Calgary Flames at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

The Ducks are flying into Calgary looking for redemption after previous setbacks but will face a determined home team ready to defend its turf fiercely. With strategic adjustments and maintaining high energy levels throughout all three periods, there is no reason why CGY cannot emerge victorious once more before their loyal supporters.


Fans can catch all the action live from Scotiabank Saddledome on April 3rd at 7:00 PM MDT where ESPN+, BSSC and BSSD will broadcast this anticipated clash between Calgary Flames and Anaheim Ducks.

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