It’s another day where we wake up remembering about an OT or SO loss the night before for the Calgary Flames. Let’s check out some news.
I’m getting really tired of these shootout and OT losses. Three straight games, the Calgary Flames have lost by a score of 2-1 in OT or shootout. I mean, at least they still get a point and they’re on a ten-game point streak. But during their seven-game win streak, they scored 27 goals. In their last three games, they’ve scored three goals.
I officially hate the bye-week.
For some reason, the Flames just can’t seem to find the back of the net as easily. And it’s not like they haven’t gotten chances, like yesterday in the first two periods. But that’s just it: They haven’t been playing a full 60 minutes. They looked tired upon return from the Winnipeg Jets, they had a weird and shaky start to the Buffalo Sabres, and then last night, they basically gave up in the third period.
Via Calgary Sun:
"“We lacked some killer instinct,” said Flames head coach Glen Gulutzan. “We had them 1-1 and you get two, it’s tough. The way we’re playing defensively, it’s tough to come back, and the way our goalie is playing. But we lacked that.”"
The Flames have one more chance to get back in the win column tonight before the All-Star break. They need a win tonight to secure that third Pacific Division spot. Right now, they’re tied with the LA Kings for points, but the Flames have one game on hand so they’re in that third place spot. If they lose tonight, they’ll be on the outside looking in again heading in the All-Star weekend.
This will be a good break and a good reset for the team. Unlike the bye-week which came at the absolute worst time.
Speaking of the All-Star weekend, Jonathan Quick has opted out of going and Mike Smith has taken his place. Last night, Smith announced that he has accepted the invite and will be going, which the league has officially announced today. I mean, we all knew he was going yesterday, but it’s official today.
Related Story: Flames Daily - Mike Smith going to ASG
Last year, we all remember his glorious five-hole shot from the other end of the ice.
Via Calgary Sun:
"“I wouldn’t even hit the net again, let alone slide it into a slot like that,” Smith insisted afterward.“It was pretty cool,” Smith told NHL.com that day. “The look on Bo Horvat’s face when I looked over at him was pretty priceless. I’m sure mine was, too, to see it go in. But it was something I’ll remember for a long time. My family was here to witness it, too, so they can believe me …“I couldn’t believe it, to be honest. I was just as shocked as everyone else was. It was pretty fluky, but we’ll take it.”"
Some links surrounding the Flames
Flames offensive slump continues in OT loss to Kings (Calgary Sun).
Tanner Pearson nets overtime winner as Kings top Flames (Sportsnet).
Flames goalie Smith accepts late all-star game invite (Calgary Sun).
Some links surrounding hockey and the NHL
Marcus Johannson reportedly has another concussion (FanSided).
How does the Golden Knights’ success impact plans to add a 32nd team? (Sportsnet).
Vegas and Colorado shine in this upside-down NHL season; Gallant and McPhee are midseason award winners (National Post).
Next: Trade Rumours - Erik Karlsson coming west?
That’s all in today’s Calgary Flames Daily!