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Can the Calgary Flames Harness the Storm Against Tampa Bay Lightning?

As the Calgary Flames prepare to face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an electrifying match at the Scotiabank Saddledome. This game is not just another fixture on the calendar; it's a test of resilience, strategy, and skill for both teams.


Jan 21, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames right wing Walker Duehr (71) controls the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Recent Performance Trends


The Flames have shown a mixed bag of results in their recent outings. With a victory against Columbus Blue Jackets where they showcased their defensive prowess by keeping a clean sheet and scoring three goals, Calgary demonstrated their ability to dominate on home ice. However, this was followed by an overtime loss to St. Louis Blues in a closely contested battle that saw them netting three but conceding four. The most concerning aspect for the Flames came in their latest game against Dallas Stars, where despite putting up a fight, they were outscored 2-6.


Analyzing these performances reveals several trends for Calgary: while their offense can be potent, as evidenced by scoring three goals in two out of these three games, consistency remains an issue. Their powerplay has been effective at times but needs more reliability; converting opportunities will be crucial against Tampa Bay's formidable lineup.


Jan 21, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri (91) and Tampa Bay Lightning center Anthony Cirelli (71) battle for the puck during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Key Factors to Watch


One area where Calgary has excelled is goaltending and defense. Despite recent losses, they've managed to keep shot counts relatively low and have seen some excellent saves from their goaltenders. This defensive solidity will be vital when facing Tampa Bay's aggressive attack.


Special teams could play a pivotal role in this matchup. The Flames' powerplay performance against Columbus shows potential for damage but maintaining discipline and avoiding penalties will be just as important against a team like Tampa Bay that can exploit any man-advantage situations.


Jan 21, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy (88) guards his net as Calgary Flames center Jonathan Huberdeau (10) tries to score during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Venue Influence


Playing at Scotiabank Saddledome offers Calgary an edge with home support likely to create an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. The Flames will need every advantage they can get to overcome Tampa Bay Lightning and return to winning ways.


As we look forward to this clash on December 12th at 9:00 PM EST broadcasted on ESPN+ and FDSSUN networks, fans should expect intense competition with both teams eager to assert dominance early in the season.


Remember to share your thoughts on how you think this thrilling encounter will unfold! Share this article with fellow hockey enthusiasts who are just as excited about this game as you are!

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