Where We Are: Playing one last road game before four days off, coming off of a power play-fueled win against the Oilers.
Where They Are: Impervious to the H1N1 flu. Oh, and as the winners of back-to-back one-goal games.
Who To Watch For: The classy captain Jarome Iginla may be the best all-around player in the NHL. Rene Bourque is riding shotgun and averaging more than a power per game while Ollie Jokinen has disappointed. Sloppy Seconds, Double-R and JayBow make the best top-three defensemen in the NHL (Phaneuf, Regehr, Bouwmeester) and they play in front of a pretty damn good goaltender - Miikka Kiprusoff. Even Kipper's backup has looked good, with Curtis McElhinney making 38 saves in Wednesday's win over Dallas.What To Watch For: Freddie Sjostrom and Nigel Dawes to do their damnedest to score against their former team. Calgary's big three D to keep tight wraps on Gabby. Dane Byers, Ryan Callahan and Brian Boyle to attempt to match the physicality of the Flames. Iginla and Bourque to make mincemeat out of Redden and Rozy by powering to the net. Curtis Glencross and Mark Giordano also using their size to their advantage on both sides of the ice.
What We'll (Hopefully) See: Captain Clutch to snap out of his funk and start playing good hockey for the first time this season, if only because he is shamed by the Calgary captain's effort/skill/talent. Sean Avery to be Sean Avery, minus the inflammatory public comments that get him suspended. Another strong game by Hobey Gilroy. Eric Nystrom to not hurt the Rangers the way his dad used to. More of Ales Kotalik's booming slapshot. Chris Higgins' goal-scoring streak to continue. No Rangers having to tussle with the alcoholic goon Brian McGrattan, especially with Brash expected to be out nursing the emotional scarring from losing to Colton Orr. It is too bad, seeing as McGratton won both of their two meetings, including this doozy.
Also Check Out: The capital letter-challenged Hit The Post, the fantastic Five Hole Fanatics, SBN's Matchsticks & Gasoline and the uber popular Battle of Alberta.
Peepin' Foes: Calgary Flames - The Flames' Fiery Legacy
In the realm of professional ice hockey, the Calgary Flames have left an indelible mark on the National Hockey League (NHL) landscape. With a rich history, passionate fan base, and a legacy of unforgettable moments, the Flames are a force to be reckoned with on the ice. In this article, we will embark on a journey into the world of the Calgary Flames, exploring their storied past, key players, and addressing frequently asked questions (FAQs) that shed light on this fiery franchise's success.
Calgary Flames: A Burning Passion for Hockey
Historical Perspective
The Calgary Flames were originally established in 1972 as the Atlanta Flames, making them one of the NHL's expansion teams. In 1980, the franchise made a historic move to Calgary, Alberta, where it became an integral part of the city's identity. The Flames have a legacy that includes a Stanley Cup championship in 1989 and a storied history of competitive hockey.
The Flames' Iconic Identity
The Calgary Flames are known for their distinctive red and gold jerseys, featuring a flaming "C" as their logo. The team's name pays homage to the 1988 Winter Olympics, which were held in Calgary and featured the Olympic torch as a central motif.
Key Moments in Flames History
The Flames have a history rich with unforgettable moments and iconic players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise:
1989 Stanley Cup Victory: The Flames' most significant achievement came in 1989 when they captured their first and only Stanley Cup championship. Led by captain Lanny McDonald and star goaltender Mike Vernon, the Flames defeated the Montreal Canadiens in a thrilling series.
Jarome Iginla Era: Jarome Iginla, one of the greatest players in Flames history, played for the team from 1996 to 2013. Known for his leadership, scoring prowess, and dedication to the community, Iginla's impact on the Flames and Calgary is immeasurable.
Flames vs. Oilers Rivalry: The Flames have a long-standing and fierce rivalry with the Edmonton Oilers, known as the "Battle of Alberta." These matchups are highly anticipated and never fail to deliver intense and dramatic hockey.
Peepin' Foes: Calgary Flames
Team Identity and Style of Play
The Calgary Flames are characterized by their fast-paced, offensive style of play. They are known for their skilled forwards, solid defense, and dynamic goaltending. The team's identity is built on a foundation of speed, precision, and tenacity.
Notable Players
Over the years, the Calgary Flames have boasted a roster of exceptional talent. Here are some of the standout players who have made significant contributions to the franchise:
Jarome Iginla: As mentioned earlier, Jarome Iginla is an iconic figure in Flames history. He is the franchise's all-time leader in goals, assists, and points. Iginla's leadership and scoring ability endeared him to fans and earned him numerous accolades.
Theoren Fleury: Theo Fleury was a dynamic forward known for his speed and scoring ability. He played a key role in the Flames' 1989 Stanley Cup victory and is considered one of the franchise's greatest players.
Lanny McDonald: Lanny McDonald, with his distinctive mustache and leadership on and off the ice, served as the captain of the Flames during their championship-winning season in 1989. His contributions to the team's success are celebrated by fans to this day.
Miikka Kiprusoff: Miikka Kiprusoff was a standout goaltender for the Flames, earning accolades such as the Vezina Trophy. His exceptional play between the pipes was instrumental in the team's success during his tenure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As with any historic sports franchise, the Calgary Flames generate a host of questions from their passionate fan base. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Flames:
1. What is the significance of the "C of Red" in Calgary Flames culture?
The "C of Red" refers to the tradition of Flames fans wearing red jerseys and clothing to home games. It creates a visually stunning and passionate atmosphere in the Scotiabank Saddledome and is a symbol of the team's devoted fan base.
2. How have the Flames performed in recent years, and what is their outlook for the future?
The Flames' performance can vary from season to season, as is common in professional sports. Their outlook depends on factors such as roster changes, coaching, and competition within the NHL. The team continually strives for success.
3. Who are the Flames' biggest rivals in the NHL?
The Flames have a fierce rivalry with the Edmonton Oilers, known as the "Battle of Alberta." Games between these two teams are highly anticipated and fiercely contested.
4. How can fans get tickets to Flames games?
Fans can purchase tickets for Calgary Flames games through the team's official website, authorized ticket vendors, or secondary ticket marketplaces. Availability may vary depending on the team's schedule and demand.
5. Are there any unique traditions or rituals associated with Flames home games?
Flames home games feature traditions like the "C of Red" and the "Flames' Firestarter," a pre-game show that ignites the crowd's excitement. The "Red Mile" tradition also sees fans congregating on 17th Avenue during playoff runs.
The Calgary Flames, with their passionate fan base and storied history, are an integral part of the NHL's tapestry. The franchise's iconic moments, legendary players, and enduring rivalries have solidified their place in the hearts of hockey fans.
As the Flames continue to pursue success on the ice, they do so with a legacy of determination, excellence, and the unwavering support of their fans. The fiery spirit of the Calgary Flames burns bright, ensuring that their place in the annals of hockey history remains secure.
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