Flames Stretch Drive Continues

With points in 14 of the last 15 games and wins in 8 of the last 9, the Calgary Flames are one of the hottest teams in the NHL. This hot streak has enabled the Flames to leapfrog from  12th to 8th place in the Western Conference Standings and a playoff berth. The Flames have played so well that they have become buyers at the trade deadline. Gone are the rumours suggesting team captain Jarome Iginla would be shipped out of the Stampede City for prospects and draft picks. Now the talk is of the Flames adding a piece or two to strengthen the playoff push and to realize the fans hope in reigniting the infamous Red Mile which reached legendary proportions in 2004. With that said, here’s a quick preview of future Flames games leading up to the Heritage Classic.

Feb 11. vs Anaheim Ducks

A vital game for both teams in the Western Conference race. The Ducks have been a surprise team this year thanks to the stellar goaltending of Jonas Hiller. The Ducks currently sit in 7th place, a single point ahead of the Flames. No doubt both teams know how big this game is.

Feb 12 @ Vancouver Canucks

Although the Canucks are well ahead of the Flames this game may have importance in the race. For starters this could be a first round preview and both teams would like to send an early message to each other. Plus this is a heated rivalry so no one backs down in these games. With Hockey Night In Canada being there as well this is the definition of Must See TV. (Sorry NBC)

Feb 14 @ Colorado Avalanche

A Valentine’s Day clash with no love in the air. The Avalanche owned the Flames last year taking the last playoff spot from Calgary. The flaming C’s would love to avenge that bitter taste by further burying the Avalanche into a deeper hole in the standings. Colorado is struggling right now so there might be no better opportunity for the Flames to finish off their division rivals.

Feb 16 vs Dallas Stars

Even though the Stars are in first place in the Pacific Division they’re only 3 points ahead of the Flames. The standings are so tight that this could be either a first round preview or a battle for the last playoff spot. The Flames defeated Dallas 7-4 in their last meeting and would like to repeat that result. With the Stars also fighting for their lives this could have a playoff type feel.

Feb 20 vs Montreal Canadiens The Heritage Classic.

The one that many people in Calgary are waiting for. McMahon Stadium will be rocking with over 40,000 people expected to be at the game. The Canadiens are in a battle in the Eastern Conference for playoff spots so the Flames will be cheered on by teams in the East. With all the hype surrounding this game the Flames cannot be sidetracked by the hoopla and remain focused on the ultimate goal which is a playoff spot.

Notes:

As mentioned earlier the Flames @ Canucks game will be on Hockey Night in Canada as part of CBC’s Hockey Day in Canada…The Stars @ Flames game will also be Nationally televised on TSN… The Heritage Classic can be seen on CBC in Canada and on Versus in the USA.