Game 19: Stymied Flames host the Colorado Avalanche
The well reprimanded Flames (courtesy of purrfect reffing) will be hosting the Colorado Avalanche at the Pengrowth Saddledome on Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 7:30 pm. Conspicuously, a deep cloud of uncertainty hangs on: Can the Flaming “C’s” bring back the preseason success back on ice?
Most certainly, if they can display “the killer instinct” that was not evident in San Jose. If they can gather their wits and sharpen their skates, they can challenge their western conference rivals who are sitting behind at 16 points. Nonetheless, although the stats favour the home team (in terms of the number of wins and points earned); Sakic and his troops are a talented bunch who will not doze off in the rink. Speaking of talent, they came back from a 2-1 deficit against the Oilers late in the third to earn the two points in the shoot out win. Besides, they have played fewer games than the Flames (16:18).
Statistical perspective: On the plus side, the visiting team has won only 4 games on the road while the Flames are 6-2-1 – hence, home ice will certainly be an advantage for them. More importantly, if they can fortify their power play and penalty killing statistics, the Flames can establish the desired momentum to counter their opponents.
Keys to the game
The 3 D’s will be a must for the Flames – Domination, Discipline and Defence.
The forwards would have to be feisty, fearless and forceful.
The strong tidal waves from the “Sea of Red” will be a critical factor for the home team’s success
Above all, it is anticipated that the refs will make good judgment calls minus the biases (of course).
Injury List
J. Vandermeer – out with a leg injury
M. Lombardi – out with upper body injury
Check out the best of the West on The Sports Network (SNET-W) with a play by play summary hosted by the brilliant voices of the Flames, Peter Mahar and Mike Rogers on The Fan 960.