Saturday, January 03, 2009

Gameday - Flames in Nashville

The last time the two teams clashed turned out to be probably one of the strangest games in recent memory. The Flames took a giant lead in the first half only to see Nashville whittle things down to a one goal deficit before the buzzer.

Calgary had a nice little run at home during the holidays. Both capable play and a very friendly schedule helped put the team on top of the NW division heap - a place they'll hope to stay if their goal is any kind of post season success.

This afternoon's contest is another fairly winnable game. Now that Shea Weber has cooled after his (projected) 40 goal, 80 point start, the Preds have been having trouble scoring. They've managed just 91 GF so far (lowest in the conference) and have a lousy GD to boot (-18). Both teams have mediocre starters now that Ellis has come back down to earth after being a league leader in SV% last season, but the Flames unarguably have the more potent offense; especially If Jarome's awakening last game wasn't merely a prelude to another nap.

Prediction - Calgary 4, Nashville 1. Iginla, Lombardi, Phaneuf (I hope!) and Moss for the Flames. Suter for the Preds.

PS - Swing by WI's place if you're down for some hot liveblog action.