Opinion
3 min read

Calgary Flames and Arizona Coyotes: A Collision Course at Scotiabank Saddledome

As the Calgary Flames prepare to host the Arizona Coyotes at the Scotiabank Saddledome, fans are bracing for an electrifying encounter. The Flames' recent performance has been a testament to their resilience and strategic prowess, particularly in their powerplay strength which was on full display during their last game against the Los Angeles Kings on March 31st. The Flames secured a convincing 4-2 victory, with three of those goals coming from powerplay opportunities.


Jan 16, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames center Yegor Sharangovich (17) and teammates celebrate after scoring in overtime against the Arizona Coyotes at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Holmes-USA TODAY Sports

The statistics from that game speak volumes about what the Coyotes are up against: Calgary dominated with an 11 percent shooting percentage and a faceoff win percentage of 55 percent. Their special teams were particularly effective, capitalizing on half of their six powerplay chances. This is an area where they have consistently outperformed many opponents this season.


On the flip side, while Arizona's shorthanded defense has been commendable, it will be severely tested by Calgary's potent powerplay unit. The Coyotes will need to be vigilant in avoiding penalties or risk being punished by a Flames team that knows how to exploit such advantages.


Jan 16, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Arizona Coyotes right wing Clayton Keller (9) takes a shot on net against the Calgary Flames during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Holmes-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at another recent game for CGY against St. Louis Blues on March 29th, despite suffering a loss with a final score of 3-5, there were positive takeaways for the team. They managed to maintain an even strength throughout most of the game but fell short due to minor lapses that led to goals against them.


However, it was in Chicago against the Blackhawks where CGY truly showed signs of struggle; managing only one goal from an astounding 39 shots indicates that finishing may be becoming a concern for them as they had only a three percent shooting success rate despite winning faceoffs at 62 percent.


Jan 16, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Arizona Coyotes center Logan Cooley (92) takes a shot as Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson (4) tries to defend his zone during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Holmes-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming match presents both challenges and opportunities for CGY – they must sharpen their offensive execution while maintaining discipline on defense if they hope to contain ARI’s attempts to disrupt their rhythm.


Fans should expect CGY’s coaching staff to have addressed these issues head-on in training sessions leading up to this pivotal clash as they aim not just for victory but also consistency in performance across all facets of play.


The scheduled battle between Calgary Flames and Arizona Coyotes is set for April 15th at Scotiabank Saddledome – puck drop is slated for 6:00 PM MDT. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ via internet streaming or tune into SCRIPPS network television coverage.

Rate the article

Related stories

Calgary Flames Set to Ignite at Little Caesars Arena Against Detroit Red Wings
Opinion

Calgary Flames Set to Ignite at Little Caesars Arena Against Detroit Red Wings

4 min read
Can the Calgary Flames Blaze Past the Ottawa Senators in Their Next Clash?
Opinion

Can the Calgary Flames Blaze Past the Ottawa Senators in Their Next Clash?

3 min read
Calgary Flames Set to Ignite the Ice Against Minnesota Wild at Scotiabank Saddledome
Opinion

Calgary Flames Set to Ignite the Ice Against Minnesota Wild at Scotiabank Saddledome

4 min read