New GM, new coach, can the Calgary Flames return to the postseason.
The Vegas Golden Knights will face threats from all teams in the Pacific Division. Some threats are naturally more dangerous than others.
In this article, we take a look at the Calgary Flames.
History against Vegas
The two teams split the four games (2-2-0). Overall, the Golden Knights are 12-6-0 against the Flames.
What THN thinks of the team
Randy Sportak, site editor of The Hockey News’s Calgary Flames site, said the following about the Flames:
-“When the Calgary Flames arrive in Las Vegas, Golden Knights fans will surprisingly see a squad very similar to last year’s team that under-achieved and missed the playoffs. There are a few changes on the ice, gone are top scorer Tyler Toffoli and a few veterans, but folks in Calgary expected more turnover with a litany of key players in the likes of forwards Elias Lindholm and defensemen Noah Hanifin, Chris Tanev and Nikita Zadorov due to become unrestricted free agents. A roster teardown may still happen to some degree if the club struggles and/or those players elect to not re-sign by the trade deadline. However, the Flames are hoping continuity will help several players will have bounce-back years — notably goaltender Jacob Markstrom and top-line winger Jonathan Huberdeau — and an infusion of youth, especially right winger Matt Coronato will make them a playoff team again.”
Will they challenge for the Pacific?
The Flames are an interesting team. The Hockey News’ projection model, KEVIN, projects them to make the postseason. People are inclined to believe it as well. The talent is there and with a new voice in the room, the Flames are poised to make a run – albeit a long shot – at the Pacific Division title. They’re more likely to be in the playoff mix, however.
THREAT LEVEL: Moderate.
Make sure you bookmark THN’s Vegas Golden Knights site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
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