Who would have thought that the Calgary Flames would string together six straight wins and points in the past 11 games? Not me. Calgary still sits around 12th, but only FIVE points separates 12th from 4th. What a wild time to be in the West.
I bet you didn’t know that Calgary has NEVER won in Atlanta since they left the city some 25 odd years ago? It’s true. But tonite, Calgary posted their sixth straight win and their first ever in Atlanta.
This early game didn’t have the theatrics of numerous powerplays or even shots. Both registered under 25 shots, but it was a far cry from boring.
Calgary scored early in the first after a four minute PP ended. Giordano with his 5th.
Atlanta came back in the second with two goals, but lately, there hasn’ t been any panic on the Flames side. On the ensuing shift after Atlanta’s second goal the top line chipped in with a crucial tying tally.
The teams traded opportunities until the 15 minute mark in the third when Mikael Backlund swung home a seeing eye shot on a rare third period shift. Calgary hung onto the win and essentially keeps pace with the rest of the West barely making a move out of 12th spot. This makes Saturday’s LA game even more crucial.
Notes: David Moss left the game in the third and, as reported by Roger Millions, saw the Atlanta team doctors. Steve Staios came off the IR to play as a 7th D man and 4th line winger. He was in place for Nik Hagman who’s out with an injury suffered Tuesday against NAshville. Lance Bouma was called up to take his place but his flight didn’t make it in time.
It was unfortunate that the Flames couldn’t capitalize on the 4 minute major but the win is all that counts. The team’s perseverence has been conspicuous lately and it makes me wonder whether Jay Feaster deserves the applause for his inspirational ways.
Go Flames Go and all the best against the Kings, boys. If the Flames hit for seven, it will definitely be heaven!