Dec 4, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames left wing Sven Baertschi (27) gets tangled up with Colorado Avalanche goalie Semyon Varlamov (1) and defenseman Jan Hejda (8) during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports
Why are some folks saying “the Calgary Flames are this year’s Colorado Avalanche?”
Entering the 2013-14 season the Colorado Avalanche were not considered a favourite to make the playoffs. The Avs had missed the postseason in four of the past five years. Here is ESPN’s Scott Burnside prediction for Colorado entering last year:
"It’s nice to see hockey matter again in Denver. Here’s hoping the fans understand that even the presence of legends like Sakic and Roy isn’t going to be able to fix what ails this franchise overnight. We see the Avs as a fourth-place team in the Central — but likely pushed out of a wild-card spot by a better team from the Pacific Division."
By December 1st of 2013, the Colorado Avalanche were 19-6 and in the thick of the playoff race. Colorado finished 3rd overall in the NHL and lost in the 1st round of the playoffs.
FAST FORWARD ONE YEAR
The Calgary Flames entered this season with many “experts” predicting a bottom 5 finish in the NHL. Here is Sportsnet’s Mark Spector prediction for Calgary entering this year:
"Calgary is deep into the start of a rebuild here. They’ll try like heck, but their solace will be in having a nice spot in the Connor McDavid lottery, not in any playoff aspirations this season."
As of December 3rd 2014, our Calgary Flames are 16-8-2 and in the thick of the playoff race.
Colorado got a boost from Semyon Varlomov goaltending them to a few wins they had no right earning the two points. Calgary has received a boost, especially in October, from Jonas Hiller and Karri Ramo earning the team wins in games that maybe they should have lost.
Colorado had this young prospect named Nathan MacKinnon with Calder Trophy whispers surrounding his name. MacKinnon delivered on those promises and won the Calder Trophy. Calgary has Johnny Gaudreau who so far this season has elevated the whispers of being a Calder Trophy nominee into a full on conversation.
Some people hate the comparison preferring to focus on this being “our” journey. I do not mind the comparison especially if it means the Flames are making the playoffs. Even if it is just to lose in the 1st round! No reason to be greedy!!