Calgary Flames Seek Fifth Straight Win Against Ducks The Calgary Flames aim to extend their winning streak to five games as they face the Anaheim Ducks in a matchup set for 7 p.m. MT on Sportsnet. The game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season, with both prior contests requiring overtime or a shootout to decide. The Flames’ young core, including first-time NHL scorers Zayne Parekh and Matvei Gridin, are expected to play pivotal roles in the contest. Parekh’s first career goal, assisted by Gridin and Matt Coronato, came in the third period of a game against the Kings, marking a significant milestone for the 19-year-old rookie. Despite his OHL dominance, Parekh has faced challenges adapting to the NHL, but his coach, Ryan Huska, praised his progress. “He’s learning how to play the game at the NHL level,” Huska said. “He’s a smaller defenceman, and it’s hard to break in as a 19-year-old. The points are going to come for him.” Gridin, a Russian forward, has also shown growth, with Huska noting his improved understanding of the game has translated into offensive production. “He’s always had swagger, but now he’s finishing chances,” Huska added. The Ducks, meanwhile, enter the game with a five-point lead in the Pacific Division, having secured 16 of their 40 wins in overtime or shootouts this season. Their recent victory over the Canucks highlighted their resilience, with Mikael Granlund and Mason McTavish contributing key goals. John Carlson, a new addition to the Ducks, has thrived in his early days with the team, posting three assists in his most recent game. Head coach Joel Quenneville praised Carlson’s ability to read the game and create opportunities, calling him a “great stabilizer” for the team.#calgary_flames #anaheim_ducks #ryan_huska #zayne_parekh #matvei_gridin
NHL Playoff Standings: How Will the Pacific Division Finish? The Pacific Division’s playoff race has become a topic of discussion among NHL players, with Edmonton Oilers star Connor McDavid joking that the competition feels like a “pillow fight.” The remark came after a weekend marked by six Pacific teams going winless in a three-day stretch, highlighting the division’s tight race for playoff spots. While the current standings show the Anaheim Ducks leading the pack, the outcome remains uncertain as teams jockey for positions in both the playoffs and the 2026 NHL draft lottery. The Ducks currently hold the top spot in the Pacific with 84 points and 24 regulation wins through 71 games. They face the Calgary Flames on Thursday, a matchup that could impact the draft lottery standings. Calgary, battling for the No. 2 seed in the lottery, will also take on the Vancouver Canucks, who are chasing the No. 1 spot. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Kings, trailing the Nashville Predators by three points and seven regulation wins for the second wild-card spot, play the Canucks in a crucial game. McDavid’s Oilers, ranked No. 2 in the division, will face the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday, a matchup projected to be one of the most likely first-round series in the playoffs, with a 62.54% chance of occurring. The Golden Knights, currently in third place, are expected to finish ahead of the Kings, Sharks, and Kraken in Stathletes’ projections. The Predators, however, are projected to secure the second wild-card spot, leaving the Sharks and Kraken in a tight race for the final playoff berth. The San Jose Sharks, whose playoff hopes have waned recently, face the St. Louis Blues on Thursday, while the Seattle Kraken, five points behind the Predators in the wild-card race, take on the Tampa Bay Lightning.#calgary_flames #vancouver_canucks #nhl #anaheim_ducks #connor_mcdavid
Tampa Bay Lightning's Nikita Kucherov Aims to Extend Dominant Road Form Against Calgary Flames The Tampa Bay Lightning, known for their aggressive playstyle, seek to complete an undefeated road trip when they face the Calgary Flames on Sunday. The team has already secured three one-sided victories during their current journey, including a 5-2 win over the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday night. Kucherov, the team’s standout performer, has been instrumental in these wins, showcasing his elite scoring ability and helping the Lightning move closer to a perfect road record. The Lightning’s recent performance has been impressive, with the team outscoring opponents 17-6 in their current road streak. This surge follows a string of consecutive 6-2 victories against the Seattle Kraken and Vancouver Canucks, marking a significant turnaround from their earlier struggles. Before this winning streak, the Lightning had lost six of their previous seven games, but Kucherov’s resurgence has shifted the momentum. Kucherov’s contributions have been nothing short of extraordinary. In the latest game against the Oilers, he recorded two goals and two assists, pushing him to the top of the NHL’s scoring leaderboard with 118 points. His consistency is evident in his ability to post three or more points in five consecutive road games, with a total of six goals and six assists in the first three games of this trip. Forward Brandon Hagel praised the team’s progress, calling the recent wins “another step in the right direction to get us out of this little funk.” The Lightning’s dominance against Pacific Division teams has also been notable, with a 12-14 record this season. Their upcoming matchup against the Flames adds to this challenge, as the Flames are all but mathematically eliminated from playoff contention.#tampa_bay_lightning #calgary_flames #matt_coronato #nikita_kucherov #ryan_huska
Lightning vs Flames Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NHL Game The Tampa Bay Lightning and Calgary Flames are set to face off in a high-stakes NHL matchup, with analysts highlighting key factors that could influence the outcome. Matt Coronato has emerged as a central figure for the Flames, particularly after the departure of Nazem Kadri, and his performance is expected to play a pivotal role in the game. The Lightning, meanwhile, are navigating a challenging schedule, having played four road games in six days, which may impact their overall effectiveness. The Flames’ offensive strategy has shifted focus to Coronato, who has seen an increase in scoring chances and shots since the trade deadline. He ranks second on the team in both shots and expected goals, making him a strong candidate for success against the Lightning’s defense. The Lightning’s goaltending situation adds another layer of complexity, as Andrei Vasilevskiy will sit out due to a back-to-back schedule, leaving the team to rely on backups. Historical data suggests that teams facing such scenarios often struggle, with the Lightning allowing 3.67 goals per game in similar situations. For the Flames, Morgan Frost’s ability to generate shots against strong defensive teams is a key asset. Frost has consistently produced multiple shots on target in 11 of his last 14 games, making him a valuable contributor to the team’s offensive efforts. The Flames’ top line, featuring Frost and Coronato, will be tested against the Lightning’s defense, which has shown resilience in recent matchups. Odds for the game reflect the teams’ current form, with the Lightning favored at -190 and the Flames at +160. Puck line bets favor the Lightning at -1.5 (+130) and the Flames at +1.5 (-150). The over/under for total goals is set at 5.#tampa_bay_lightning #calgary_flames #scotiabank_saddledome #matt_coronato #andrei_vasilevskiy
Projected Lineup - Flames vs. Lightning The Calgary Flames are set to face the Tampa Lightning tonight in a crucial matchup at the Scotiabank Saddledome. The game is scheduled for a 6:00 p.m. MT puck drop, and the broadcast will be available on Sportsnet West and Sportsnet 960. With limited tickets remaining, fans are encouraged to secure their seats for the event. According to the lines and pairings used during the morning skate, the Flames’ projected lineup for the game includes the following combinations: Blake Coleman and Mikael Backlund paired with Joel Farabee, Matvei Gridin and Morgan Frost alongside Matt Coronato, Yegor Sharangovich and Ryan Strome with Victor Olofsson, Martin Pospisil and Tyson Gross joined by Adam Klapka, Kevin Bahl and Zach Whitecloud, Olli Määttä and Hunter Brzustewicz, and Joel Hanley with Zayne Parekh. The Flames are looking to extend their winning streak to three consecutive games, a goal that will require strong performances from all players on the ice. The lineup adjustments and pairings are designed to maximize offensive potential while maintaining defensive stability against a formidable Lightning squad. The matchup is expected to be highly competitive, with both teams vying for playoff positioning. The Flames’ ability to execute their game plan effectively will be key to securing a victory. Fans will be hoping for a strong showing from the team as they aim to build momentum heading into the latter part of the season.#calgary_flames #tampa_lightning #scotiabank_saddledome #sportsnet_west #sportsnet_960
Flames vs Devils Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NHL Game The Calgary Flames will face the New Jersey Devils in a matchup that promises to be a battle of defensive grit and strategic play. Analyst Todd Cordell of Covers.com has provided a detailed breakdown of the game, focusing on key players and betting trends. Yan Kuznetsov of the Flames is expected to dominate the ice, particularly in terms of shot blocking, while the Devils’ offensive struggles could create opportunities for the Flames to capitalize. Kuznetsov, a key defenseman for the Flames, has been a standout performer in recent weeks, ranking seventh among defensemen in shot blocks over the past 15 games. With the departure of MacKenzie Weegar at the trade deadline, Kuznetsov’s role has expanded, and his ability to disrupt the Devils’ attack is a major factor in the Flames’ chances. Cordell notes that Kuznetsov has exceeded the 1.5 blocked shots threshold in 63% of his games since the start of the season, making him a strong contender for the Flames’ victory. The Devils, meanwhile, have struggled offensively, ranking 30th or worse in goals per game this season. Their defense, however, has been relatively strong, placing them sixth in shot attempts over the last 10 games. This balance could lead to a high-scoring contest, but the Flames’ defensive depth and Kuznetsov’s presence may tilt the momentum in their favor. For bettors, the game offers several key lines. The moneyline favors the Devils at -171, while the Flames are listed at +150. The puck line shows the Devils as slight favorites (-1.5, +153) and the Flames as underdogs (+1.5, -175). The over/under for total goals is set at 5.5, with even money (-110) on both sides.#calgary_flames #new_jersey_devils #prudential_center #todd_cordell #yan_kuznetsov
New Jersey Devils Host Calgary Flames in Key Regular-Season Clash The New Jersey Devils will host the Calgary Flames in a crucial matchup as part of their ongoing seven-game homestand. Puck drop is set for 7:12 p.m. ET Thursday at Prudential Center. The game marks the fifth installment of the Devils’ homestand and the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Devils, with a record of 32-30-2, aim to extend their playoff hopes, while the Flames, at 25-32-7, are looking to secure a strong finish to their season despite missing the postseason. Head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed that goaltender Jacob Markstrom will start for the Devils, despite the team’s morning skate being shortened due to Markstrom’s preference to avoid early-game skating. “We gave him the option,” Keefe said, “and he chose to stay off.” The Devils’ lineup features adjustments, including the reuniting of Jesper Bratt with Jack Hughes and the return of Arseny Gritsyuk to play with Cody Glass and Lenni Hameenaho. “It’s a little bit of an adjustment,” Glass said, “but we’ve played with Gritsyuk before, so we know what he brings. Communication is key.” Glass also praised Hameenaho’s growth, noting the rookie’s adaptability to NHL defense. The Devils’ morning skate included all players except Markstrom, who opted out. The team’s practice schedule has allowed for significant preparation during their break, with Keefe highlighting the value of extended practice time. “We’ve been able to get some good practice time,” he said, “and I’m hopeful that will continue to be productive. Between coming out of the break and the gaps between games, I feel we’ve practiced more in these last few weeks than we have virtually the entire season.#calgary_flames #new_jersey_devils #sheldon_keefe #jesper_bratt #prudential_center
Calgary Flames Acquire Prospect Forward Brennan Othmann from New York Rangers The Calgary Flames have acquired forward Brennan Othmann from the New York Rangers in a trade finalized on Friday. According to reports from The Athletic, the Rangers received prospect Jacob Battaglia in exchange for Othmann. The deal marks a strategic move for both teams as they prepare for the remainder of the season and the upcoming trade deadline. Othmann, 23, has emerged as a key prospect for the Flames, having played 17 games for the Rangers this season and recorded a goal. His performance in the NHL has been complemented by strong play in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he has tallied eight goals and 16 points in 26 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack. The 6-foot winger is entering the final season of his three-year, entry-level contract, which carries a cap hit of $863,333. He is set to become a restricted free agent at the end of the season. Drafted 16th overall by the Rangers in 2021, Othmann has accumulated a goal and three points in 42 NHL games. His AHL career includes 41 goals and 85 points across 120 games, showcasing his offensive potential. The Pickering, Ont., native has also represented Canada internationally, earning gold medals at the World Juniors in 2022 and 2023. His combination of NHL experience and AHL production makes him a valuable addition to the Flames’ roster. The trade reflects the Flames’ efforts to bolster their depth and address specific needs. Othmann’s ability to contribute at both the NHL and AHL levels aligns with the team’s long-term goals. Meanwhile, the Rangers’ acquisition of Battaglia suggests a focus on developing younger talent while managing their cap space.#jacob_battaglia #new_york_rangers #calgary_flames #brennan_othmann #hartford_wolf_pack
Jacob Battaglia Traded to New York Rangers Jacob Battaglia was traded to the New York Rangers from the Calgary Flames on Friday in a deal that included Brennan Othmann, according to Peter Baugh of The Athletic. The transaction marks a significant move for the 20-year-old forward, who has spent the majority of his professional career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) despite being selected by Calgary in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft. Battaglia, who has remained in the OHL rather than joining the Flames' junior team, has made an impact this season with the Flint Firebirds. In 22 appearances, he recorded 12 goals, four assists, and 14 penalty minutes. His performance has caught the attention of NHL teams, leading to his rights being transferred to the Rangers. The deal underscores the growing interest in Battaglia’s development as a prospect, with the Rangers looking to bolster their depth in the forward corps. The trade also involves Brennan Othmann, a player the Flames had previously acquired. Othmann’s inclusion in the deal highlights the Flames’ strategy to balance their roster while acquiring assets for their future. For Battaglia, the move to the Rangers represents a step toward NHL opportunities, though he will need to prove himself in the OHL before earning a spot in the NHL. Battaglia’s journey from the 2024 draft to this trade reflects the competitive nature of NHL prospect development. While many drafted players move directly to professional teams, Battaglia’s continued presence in the OHL demonstrates the importance of seasoning and performance in the junior league. His 12 goals and 14 PIM this season showcase his offensive potential and physicality, traits that could translate well to the NHL level.#jacob_battaglia #new_york_rangers #calgary_flames #brennan_othmann #flint_firebirds
NHL Trade Buzz: Canucks hold out Myers for roster management purposes The NHL Trade Deadline looms with eight days remaining, and teams across the league are preparing for potential roster adjustments. The Vancouver Canucks have taken a proactive approach by holding out defenseman Tyler Myers for roster management purposes, a move that has sparked speculation about his potential trade. Myers, 36, was a late scratch for the Canucks’ 3-2 overtime loss to the Winnipeg Jets on Wednesday, with coach Adam Foote citing the team’s need to manage its roster ahead of the deadline. “This is the time of year where this kind of thing comes up,” Foote said, emphasizing the inevitability of such decisions as the deadline approaches. Myers, entering his second season of a three-year, $9 million contract, has been a key player for the Canucks, but the team’s 32nd-place standing in the league has raised questions about his future. Forward Evander Kane acknowledged the team’s precarious position, stating, “You have to focus on what’s in front of you and just go about your day. It’s a short window here that we have until the trade deadline so things can happen at the drop of a hat.” Forward Brock Boeser echoed this sentiment, calling Myers’ potential trade “inevitable” and expressing concern over losing a leader who has mentored younger players. “He’s such a big voice in the room,” Boeser said. “Losing him will [stink], but it’s part of the business.” Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames are navigating their own challenges as they face the trade deadline. Centers Nazem Kadri and Blake Coleman have both indicated they could be moved, with Kadri, who leads the team with 39 points in 56 games, having discussed his situation with general manager Craig Conroy.#calgary_flames #vancouver_canucks #tyler_myers #adam_foote #nazem_kadri
