Yet another tough night for the Calgary Flames as their record drops to 15-7-6 and their losing streak extends to four games. Once again, the Flames out-chanced their opposition, but a combination of defensive mishaps and an off night for goaltender Jacob Markstrom spelled another loss in the month of December.
Find a way to bury teams in the first The Flames once again came out flying to start the game. In the first period of the game they posted a 76.9 CF% (so percentage of all shot attempts between both teams), outnumbered scoring chances against the Bruins 15-5, and led 5-3 in high danger chances. Despite their efforts, they left the period down by one.
Much like the Carolina game, they followed a dominant first up by getting outplayed in the second. 12-13 in shot attempts, 2-3 in high danger opportunities and, most importantly, got scored on twice while not finishing any of their offensive plays.
Again like the Carolina game; they followed a bad second with a strong third. Sean Monahan was asked in an interview with Peter Loubardias about whether the Flames had found an identity. Losing momentum if they can’t bury teams in the initial onslaught seems to be part of that identity.
On Sean Speaking of Sean Monahan, it’s nice to see him score one last night. If he can get his offence going then he adds another dimension to a team already outpacing other teams on a nightly basis. That said, he’s on team that beats more skilled teams by keeping the score tight and he’s getting caved in at 5v5. He’s making some mistakes as a center.
One example: Zadorov and Gudbranson tend to double up on corner battles, leaving the front of the net vacant. Monahan has had a habit of joining to support the play when they do that — leaving the front of the net either vacant or covered by a winger who should normally cover an area higher in the defensive zone. A great example of this is Aho’s first goal against the Flames in Thursday.
His line didn’t do well last night. Out-chanced 4-8, outshot 2-6, and outscored 1-2. All while being given the majority of their faceoffs outside of the defensive zone (8-3). Mind you this was in a game where the Flames outshot the Bruins 42-27.
Off night for goaltending Jacob Markstrom playing in his normal dominant fashion could have altered the outcome of this game. The first goal against was a perimeter shot that Markstrom would easily save. .852 is a number I’m sure he’s not happy with. He had a few goals he definitely wanted back last night. Absurd tip from Brad Marchand notwithstanding.
There’s plenty of room for optimism still. The Flames are getting the majority of chances and a large contingent of their secondary scoring are bound to heat up soon.
The Flames play the 10-15-2 Blackhawks tomorrow in what may be a closer game than many expect. Game time is 5:30 MST.
Trevor Neufeld