The Calgary Flames are gearing up for a new season with a completely revamped roster compared to last year. The team is embarking on a new direction, focusing on a rebuild that has fans intrigued to see how it will all unfold. While the Flames may not be considered a playoff team this year, there are still plenty of games that are must-see for various reasons. Here is a rundown of the games in the first half of the season that fans will not want to miss.
The Flames will kick off the season with a game against Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Crosby, coming off an impressive 42-goal, 94-point season at the age of 36, is always a sight to behold on the ice. As Flames fans, it’s a rare opportunity to witness the greatness of a player like Crosby in person. Fans should make the trip to the Saddledome to witness one of the all-time greats before his career starts winding down.
Another player worth keeping an eye on is the young phenom Connor Bedard. The rising star had an outstanding rookie season and is only going to continue to dazzle fans with his offensive prowess. Watching Bedard play is a treat for any hockey enthusiast.
A unique matchup to look forward to is when the Flames face off against the newly relocated Utah team. This game will mark the first time that Flames fans get to see Utah in action, showcasing their jerseys, arena, and fan base. The novelty of facing a new opponent and potential conference rival adds to the excitement of tuning in.
One of the most highly anticipated games of the season will be when former Flames goaltender Jacob Markstrom returns to Calgary with the New Jersey Devils. Markstrom served as the Flames’ starter for four seasons and played a crucial role in the team’s goaltending corps. This game will be a special occasion to recognize Markstrom’s contributions to the franchise and witness the future of the Flames’ netminding with Dustin Wolf.
When the Flames hit the road to face the Winnipeg Jets, it will be another chapter in the intense Battle of Alberta rivalry. Games against the Flames’ archrivals are always hotly contested and full of passion, making them must-watch matchups. Even when the odds may be against the Flames, the energy and excitement of these games are undeniable.
As October rolls around, Flames fans will have the opportunity to see another living legend in action when Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals visit Calgary. Ovechkin, dubbed one of the greatest goal scorers of all time, is inching closer to Wayne Gretzky’s record for most career goals. Witnessing Ovechkin on the ice is a chance to see history in the making and a reminder of the incredible talent that has graced the sport.
In conclusion, the upcoming Flames season is filled with intriguing matchups that are sure to captivate fans and keep them glued to their screens. Whether it’s facing off against top-tier talent like Crosby, Bedard, or Ovechkin, or taking on new opponents like Utah, every game on the Flames’ schedule has its own unique storyline worth following. Be sure not to miss a moment of the action as the Flames navigate through this season of change and growth.