With so much talent, it’s clear that the Western Conference is the superior of the two sides in the NHL. There’s the Los Angeles Kings, the Chicago Blackhawks, the Anaheim Ducks and the St. Louis Blues. And that’s just at the top of the list of contenders.
While those teams were all expected to be contenders, it’s surprising to see that the Calgary Flames are right there near the top of the Western Conference standings with everyone. They’ve posted a 13-8-2 record through their first 23 games. Calgary has turned things around under head coach Bob Hartley and there is no doubt that he has played an integral role in their recent success. It might still be early in the year but when you take a closer look at this team, it is clear that the Flames have what it takes to make the playoffs this season.
Offensive Flare
When Calgary let last year’s leading goal scorer Mike Cammalleri leave town, it appeared – at least on paper – that their offense would take a major hit. However, the Flames have instead taken a step in the other direction with a 3.0 goals per game average that ranks fifth in the NHL.
Veterans Jiri Hudler and Mason Raymond have produced up front while young stars like Sean Monahan and Johnny Gaudreau have emerged as steady contributors. Calgary also benefits from an outstanding defensive core led by Mark Giordano, T.J. Brodie, and Dennis Wideman. They’ve been strong at both ends as they’ve combined for 19 goals already this season. The Flames are still missing that elite scorer that can take over a game but they continue to find ways to manufacture goals as one of the highest scoring teams in the NHL.
Defensive Depth
The defense has been among the most impressive in the NHL this season as Giordano, Brodie, and Wideman are joined by Kris Russell, Deryk Engelland, and Ladislav Smid for a steady blend of scoring, size, character, and defensive ability. The offensive ability was talked about above but another thing that stands out is the character and leadership that this experienced group has brought to the table. They support a forward core made up of so many young pieces. They may not get the credit they deserve just yet but the Flames have one of the most complete sets of defensemen in the NHL.
Steady Goaltending
Another difference from a year ago is that Calgary has upgraded its goaltending with the arrival of Jonas Hiller. Hiller has posted a 9-6-1 record with a 2.49 goals against average and .913 save percentage while also giving the team in front of him more confidence.
The Flames still rank 20th in the NHL in goals per game allowed with an average of 2.7 against but that also has something to do with the team’s development in its own end as well as Karri Ramo’s .898 save percentage in eight games as the backup. Hiller is the experienced veteran goalie that can hold his own in the Calgary net and he is one more reason why the Flames can make the playoffs.
