It was this time last year, against the Chicago Blawkhawks no less, when the Flames pulled out of a losing funk in a big way. Tonight, the Flames faced the league’s best in an attempt to right a sinking ship. Teams rarely make it to the playoffs if they don’t sit in a spot by American Thanksgiving.

That’s next Thursday, the Flames have a chance, but they gotta win 40 more games this year….. Well they got off to a good start tonight.


Calgary usually starts off well, but the final 55 minutes are the problem.

They managed to skate well with the Blackhawks early. Trading chances, and building off of huge Miikka Kiprusoff saves, Lee Stempniak opened scoring with a sweet end to end rush, a rarity with the Flames.

Chicago tied it up a minute later. Quick goals was the name of the game tonight.

The second period was the clincher for the FLames. 2 goals in the first minute 17 seconds apart. First, Rene Bourque continued his solid play (two games worth) with a goal Crawford would like to have back. Then, Paul Byron with his second with a sweet snap backhand.

3-1 Flames.

Chicago drew within 1 scoring on a 5 v 3 PP.

Glencross scored the final two, Jokinen with 3 points on the night, the second line with 3 goals on the night.

On Glencross’ first goal this happened.

Missing in action, yet again, the top line. Where is Iginla? The issue is undeniably a problem with the center position. Backlund is just back and will take time to get back into form, but overall, Iginla and Tanguay need to start clicking if the Flames are going to have a chance to even challenge for a playoff position.