GAME #3

Calgary Flames @ Anaheim Ducks

Honda Center, Anaheim, California

Time: 7PM, Pacific Time

TV: Prime, NHL.TV

Radio: AM 830

After earning one point in their overtime loss to the Philadelphia Flyers Saturday evening, the Anaheim Ducks will try and get back to winning as they play host to the Calgary Flames. With the overtime loss, the Ducks move to 1-0-1 and trail only the Los Angeles Kings and Vegas Golden Knights (early favorite to win the cup) in the Pacific.

The Flames are coming off a commanding 6-3 win over the Winnipeg Jets in which they racked up 45 shots on net and 11 players recorded a point. The Flames took control in the 2nd period, netting 4 unanswered goals. The Jets never recovered. Johnny Gaudreau and T.J. Brodie each recorded 4 points. Mike Smith also recorded his first win in a Flames uniform. The win brought the Flames to 1-1-0 after losing their season opener to the Edmonton Oilers 3-0 behind McDavid’s hat-trick.

The Ducks and Flames have had an entertaining rivalry brewing the past few seasons, especially if you’re a Ducks fan. Anaheim is like the big brother who bullies on the Flames. The Flames have lost consecutive playoffs series to the Ducks (last season & 2014/2015). Everyone is aware of “The Streak” Anaheim currently has against the Flames at home. The Flames will look to get some revenge tonight as the Ducks have a long list of injuries.

Keys to the Game:

The Ducks lacked consistency in the overtime loss to the Flyers and will need to come up with more frequent scoring chances if they want to beat the Flames. One way they can improve is by converting a power play opportunity. The Ducks are currently 0-6 with the extra man. Calgary has only been shorthanded 4 times to start the season so it makes PP opportunities even more important.

Another key factor is getting on the board early. The Ducks haven’t opened the scoring in either of their first two games. We all love the Comeback-Ducks feeling we’ve grown accustomed to over the past few years, but it will be much easier for the Ducks to get the W if they are playing ahead.

All Eyes On Me:

Johnny Gaudreau is coming off a 4 point night and will look to continue that play by using his speed against the bigger, slower Ducks. Anaheim will need to be smart defensively to keep him contained and avoid too many odd-man rushes or breakaway opportunities. Maybe send Bieksa or Beauchemin out to cover him - I’m sure that won’t end badly.

Jaromir Jagr has yet to make his debut for the Flames after signing a 1 year, $1 million deal with them prior to the season. If he decides he’s ready against Anaheim, it will be a must watch for everyone. Who doesn’t love Jagr!

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