Scouting the Playoff Race: Calgary Flames
It's weird that trade deadline sellers like the Calgary Flames have a shot at the playoffs, yet here we are. But are they a threat to the Vegas Golden Knights?
1. The Case for the Calgary Flames
If there's one thing the 2011-12 Los Angeles Kings have taught us, it's a hot goaltender can lead a team to the Stanley Cup. Jonathan Quick was the hot hand that season, making the Kings the lowest seed to win the Stanley Cup.
Goaltender Jacob Markstrom has the potential to do the same. The Swedish star has a GAA of 2.68 this season, going with his save percentage of .910. The Calgary Flames might luck out by not trading Markstrom, for he has the potential to lead them on a run.
2. The Case Against the Calgary Flames
Simply put, the deck's stacked against the Calgary Flames. You must pass the Minnesota Wild, St. Louis Blues, and the Vegas Golden Knights. Being down by eight points for the final playoff spot heading into Thursday would fold a regular team.
Plus, the Flames don't have the depth. A team can rely on their goaltender so much before breaking down. The power play? It's weak. The offense? Flaccid. That's where Calgary stands now, for it might be too late for them.
3. Any Former Vegas Golden Knights on the Flames
When the Vegas Golden Knights acquired defenseman Noah Hanifin from the Calgary Flames, they sent defenseman Daniil Miromanov in exchange. In turn, Calgary signed the 26-year-old to a two-year extension.
Miromanov has enjoyed his new Canadian home, already scoring two goals in six games with Calgary. With the defensive depth the Golden Knights are carrying, there was no room for him. Now, the Russian defenseman is finding a niche for himself in Alberta.
4. The Verdict
There's too much work for the Calgary Flames to do to catch up to the Vegas Golden Knights. Plus, even if the Golden Knights fall out of favor, the Flames must jump the Wild and Blues.
With the lack of overall depth, Calgary just doesn't have enough to overcome these stacked odds. There's a reason why the Flames were deadline sellers. Next season will offer them an opportunity to regroup and compete in the Pacific Division.
feed