Opinion
3 min read

Calgary Flames Eye Redemption in Clash with Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre

The Calgary Flames are gearing up for a pivotal showdown against the Winnipeg Jets, and fans are eager to see how their team will respond after recent performances. The Flames' last outing at the Scotiabank Saddledome on March 25 saw them fall short against the Buffalo Sabres, with a final score of 4-1. Despite outshooting the Sabres by a margin of 33 to 29, Calgary's efforts were stifled due to an impressive goaltending display from their opponents.


Feb 19, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames head coach Ryan Huska during interview after the game against the Winnipeg Jets at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

In that game, Calgary's powerplay managed to convert once out of two opportunities—a statistic they'll be keen on improving. Their faceoff win percentage stood strong at 63 percent, but it wasn't enough to secure victory. The Flames' defense blocked a significant number of shots (16), yet it was their offense that seemed unable to capitalize on scoring chances.


Looking back further, the encounter with the Vancouver Canucks on March 24 also ended in disappointment for CGY as they were edged out with a scoreline of 4-2. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways; notably, their shorthanded play showed resilience and effectiveness.


Feb 19, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri (91) scores a goal against Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

However, it is essential for CGY to address certain areas before facing WPG. One such area is even-strength play where they have struggled recently—evidenced during their clash against Washington Capitals on March 19 when they conceded three goals while playing five-on-five.


The upcoming game presents an opportunity for redemption and it's crucial that CGY brings intensity from puck drop if they wish to emerge victorious at Canada Life Centre. They must leverage their faceoff prowess and tighten up defensively during even-strength situations while capitalizing on any powerplay chances presented.


Feb 19, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames defenseman Oliver Kylington (58) controls the puck against the Winnipeg Jets during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

WPG will not make things easy; as hosts, they'll look to assert dominance early on. However, if CGY can maintain composure and execute effectively across all facets of play—especially in special teams—they stand a good chance of turning around their fortunes.


Fans can catch this exciting matchup scheduled for April 5th at Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg or tune into ESPN+ online broadcast networks starting at 7:00 PM CT.

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