Something’s Gotta Give

Previewing tonight’s Flames/Ducks tilt

By Marcus White

Liam Richards/Canadian Press

If I had told you a month ago that one of the most intriguing games early in the season would be between the Calgary Flames and Anaheim Ducks, would you have believed me? 

If you said yes, you’re a psychic, an optimist, or a liar.

Tonight’s matchup is the first between Calgary and Anaheim as divisional rivals since 1998, and sole possession of second place in the Pacific is on the line. While it could be a matchup of a little interest in the long run, there’s definitely some intrigue surrounding tonight’s contest at the Honda Center.

To the surprise of many, the Calgary Flames remain undefeated in regulation through five games this season. Despite numerous last place projections, two goaltenders with save percentages below .900, and the league’s 27th-ranked penalty kill, the Flames have eight points in their first five games.

Calgary’s early success is due, in large part, to a surprisingly potent offense. The Flames are averaging 3.2 goals per game this season, which is good enough for fifth in the league and have yet to score less than three goals in a game.

2013 sixth-overall draft pick Sean Monahan leads Calgary’s attack with four goals and is making the most of his opportunity. Monahan’s impressive debut has also created a dilemma in Calgary’s front office, as the Flames must decide whether they will send the talented rookie back to the Ottawa 67s of the Ontario Hockey League or if he’s done enough to secure a permanent spot in the NHL.

Almost as surprising is the Ducks’ similarly impressive start. After a 6-1 shellacking in their first game against the Avalanche, Anaheim has rebounded impressively. The Ducks have since won four straight games, most recently downing the Ottawa Senators while wearing their “Mighty” throwbacks.

A pair of newcomers has helped lead the way for the Ducks offensively. Claimed off of waivers from the Capitals and acquired from Ottawa in the Bobby Ryan trade, respectively, Matthieu Perreault and Jakob Silfverberg are tied for second on the team with five points. Goaltender Jonas Hiller is also off to an impressive start, allowing less than one-and-a-half goals per game, and posting a .959 save percentage.

It’ll be the second of a four game home stand for the Ducks and the first stop on a daunting five game road trip for the Flames. Tonight will provide a solid test for both clubs, as each looks to prove that their hot start is no fluke.