The Calgary Flames, after losing to Los Angeles 3-2, fell in consecutive games for the first time since early January.
The first 40 minutes were the ugliest we’ve seen in recent memory, a testament to the King’s ability to suffocate and stymie Calgary’s high-powered offence. The Kings were playing on the second night of a back to back, making the feat even more impressive.
The Flames got things going a bit more in the third thanks to a power-play goal from Johnny Gaudreau. But even before and after the goal, it was clear Calgary’s top scorers were enduring a rare off night. Passes missed the mark all evening, the forecheck wasn’t as successful as it usually is and the Flames’ top guns were slightly off, struggling to match their usually exceedingly high standards.
Last night also marked the second time in a row the Flames lost by a single goal. I’ve harped on this numerous times before, but the more the issue perpetuates, the higher the concern level of Darryl Sutter and his coaching staff, particularly as the playoffs beckon.
The Flames fell to 8-4-9 in one-goal games and 9-11-4 when conceding the first goal, not exactly numbers conducive for a long playoff run. Yes, 9 of Calgary’s 13 one-goal losses have come by way of three-on-three overtime or shootout.
But whether you want to admit it, those losses in tight games are still cause for concern. It’s probably a good thing the Flames have played the fewest one-goal games, 21, this season. In contrast, the Kings have played the most one-goal games, something that bodes well should they qualify for the postseason. And that looks more likely with each passing contest.
The Flames, to avoid a three-game losing skid for only the second time this season, will look to rebound on Saturday against the Blues. It’s the last home game before Calgary goes on a four-game western trip, their first significant road trip since early January.