The Calgary Flames are gearing up for their final game of 2025 against the Philadelphia Flyers, aiming for their 41st victory of the year. They seek to finish the calendar year on a high note and return to the .500 mark. The matchup will take place at the Scotiabank Saddledome, where the Flames hope to clinch a fifth consecutive home win.
Current Season Overview
December has been a fruitful month for Calgary, featuring an impressive 8-4-0 record. Much of this success can be attributed to Captain Mikael Backlund, who has netted five goals this month. Backlund, along with teammate Nazem Kadri, leads the team in December points with ten.
Key Player Performances
Backlund’s performance has been elevated by his strong partnership with Blake Coleman. Backlund boasts a +10 rating, while Coleman closely follows with a +8 rating. Coleman has contributed eight points since the end of November, enhancing the duo’s contributions on both offense and defense.
Coaching Perspectives
Head Coach Ryan Huska noted that Backlund’s mindset shifted after a challenging October. He emphasized that focusing on his game has positively impacted the team’s overall play. “He’s on pace for one of his better years ever,” Huska stated, discussing Backlund’s evolution as a player this year.
Western Conference Dynamics
The Flames have positioned themselves in the middle of a competitive Western Conference. They are just three points behind the eighth-place San Jose Sharks, with only seven points separating the final Wild Card spot from the conference’s bottom tier.
Coleman’s Impact
- Blake Coleman has been a standout performer, scoring crucial goals.
- His contributions extend to penalty kills and physical play.
- Coach Huska regards Coleman as one of the team’s top players in recent performances.
With their sights set on the playoffs, the Flames are motivated to capitalize on the momentum created by their key players. Their performance in this matchup against the Flyers will be crucial as they aim to solidify their standing in the Western Conference.
