Flames Face Ducks in Critical Playoff Push Showdown

ANAHEIM, California — The Calgary Flames are set to face the Anaheim Ducks tonight in a crucial matchup for their playoff aspirations. With the puck scheduled to drop at 8:00 p.m. MT, the Flames enter the game needing a win to close the gap on the Minnesota Wild for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

After a thrilling comeback win against the San Jose Sharks earlier this week, the Flames find themselves four points behind the Wild, making every game vital. Morgan Frost, a forward for the Sharks, coined the phrase ‘Pesky Flames’ after the game, reflecting Calgary’s recent tenacity in high-pressure situations.

The Flames’ head coach, Ryan Huska, acknowledged the team’s recent struggles with starting games strong. “There’s been a number of nights in a row where our start hasn’t been good enough,” he remarked. “We’ll have to fix something for Anaheim because it’s just been a couple nights in a row.” Huska remains optimistic, noting the squad’s resilience, particularly in third periods.

In their last contest, Frost assisted on a power play goal by Jonathan Huberdeau that contributed to a hard-fought victory, bringing Calgary’s season total to 37 wins.

The Ducks, on the other hand, are coming off a strong 3-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers. Young talent Cutter Gauthier scored two goals in that game, and Mason McTavish provided the game-winner just into the third period. Goaltender Lukas Dostal registered an impressive 45 saves, showcasing his crucial role in the team’s success.

“I was under pressure a little bit today,” Dostal said following the victory. “But, as I always say, it’s my job and I’m just glad we could take the win.” The Ducks have enjoyed a solid run at home, claiming six of their last nine games in Anaheim.

With both teams averaging substantial high-danger scoring chances, Calgary currently ranks 22nd in this metric, while Anaheim holds the 31st position. This matchup is important for both teams, but especially the Flames, who need to build momentum as the regular season starts its final stretch.

Historically, tonight’s game marks the fourth and final meeting of the season between the two teams. Calgary seeks to secure a series sweep for just the second time in franchise history against Anaheim. The last time such an accomplishment was achieved was during the 2019-20 season.

Huska will look to players like Adam Klapka, who has made a significant impact in recent games. Quickly adapting to a top-line role, Klapka netted a goal and drew a penalty that led to a Flames power play goal last game.

As the Flames face off against the Ducks, the stakes are very clear: a win would not only boost their standings but also keep their playoff hopes alive. Additionally, the Flames will be watching the outcomes of several concurrent games, including the crucial match between the Sharks and Wild tonight which could influence their playoff trajectory.