Calgary Flames have been in a tailspin since their playoff series against the Edmonton Oilers.
Calgary Flames have been in a tailspin since their playoff series against the Edmonton Oilers.
EDMONTON -- The Battle of Alberta is a wonderful thing.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTWubC_NH_E[/embed]
The Edmonton Oilers rivalry against their provincial neighbors to the south has always been a source of passion - for both fan bases. The Calgary Flames have engaged in countless heated games over the years. That rivalry seemed to reach an apex during the 2022 playoffs.
Even though the series ended in five games - it was a passionate series for both teams. Two years ago today (on May 26th 2022) Connor McDavid ended it in overtime.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGrfP1UZnjk[/embed]
Since that goal the Flames have been in a world of hurt. Johnny Gaudreau left in free agency while Matthew Tkachuk requested a trade - and found his way to the Florida Panthers. That trade brought in the new faces of Mackenzie Weegar and Jonathan Huberdeau.
Like it or not Flames fans, the team hasn't been the same since that loss.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCYQL2v4gw8[/embed]
Now they are in the middle of a retool, or rebuild (whatever management wants to label it). Which is unfortunate - it was a great thing for the province of Alberta. To have both teams be competitive enough to meet in the playoffs gave both fanbases a huge boost in morale. Many were expecting this to be the norm for many years to come.
Sadly, this was not the case. Time will tell if the reshaping of the Flames roster can bring the heat back up in this rivalry.
Bookmark The Hockey News Edmonton Oilers team site to never miss news, interviews or any other updates on the Oilers.
Related: Oilers Must Make Big Lineup Changes
Related: Oilers' New Foe Has Goalie Health Concerns
Related: Former Oilers Forward Pat Maroon is Done
Related: Arturs Silovs Leaves Leon Draisaitl Speechless