Game 13: Calgary Flames host the Phoenix Coyotes
The 3-2 defeat in Anaheim last night ends the Flames’ winning streak. Does this envisage 7 to be the unlucky number for the Flames? Not in the eyes of the Flames perhaps, because they have the tenacity to change all the statistics in their favour and what’s more – they have home ice advantage with the C of Red rocking with excitement. Keeping this in mind, the Flames should be ready to counter the Coyotes at the Saddledome tonight.
On one end of the spectrum, the stats are indeed in favour of the home team in terms of having won more games than their opponents (7:4) respectively; and having a better record while playing on home ice (4-1-1). The Flames' penalty killing and power play percentage outshines the Coyotes’ considerably. Even though the stats are said to be consistent with a team’s performance, the Flames have the flexibility to bounce back after a loss. From a critical perspective, however, the Flames have a soft spot – they seem to be less challenging against their weaker counterparts and it is difficult to predict how strong their motivation will be to challenge Gretzky’s troops.
The fact remains that in order to strive for a win; the Flames will have to build a stronger brick fort that will serve as an insurance that enables Kipprusoff to balance out a valuable dividend. A group effort will be a must for them to continue climbing the ladder and narrow the gap between their Western conference division rivals.
Watch it all on SNET-W (HD), Tuesday, November 4th at 8:00 pm MT. A play by play summary will be hosted by the Voice of the Flames, Peter Mahar and his color commenter, Mike Rogers on the Fan 960; a privilege for the fans on the run to join in the fun.