After a few days off the Calgary Flames are back in action tonight when they square off against the Colorado Avalanche for the second time this preseason.
The Flames scored just four goals in their first three games but appear to have found their groove after scoring four goals in consecutive wins against the Vancouver Canucks.
The Flames are hoping their offense stays hot tonight when they take on a very watered down Avalanche team whose lineup is headlined by Nathan MacKinnon and some of their top prospects in Mikko Rantanen, Mikhail Grigorenko and Connor Bleackley.
This game will not be televised, however, it will be streamed on CalgaryFlames.com (9 eastern, 7 mountain).
Let's take a look at Calgary's projected lineup:
Gaudreau - Monahan - Hudler Bennett - Backlund - Frolik Ferland - Granlund - Jooris Byron - Shore - Hathaway
Giordano - Hamilton Russell - Wideman Wilson - Engelland
Hiller Ramo
What to watch:
- The Flames have an abundance of forwards on one-way deals. That means guys like Granlund or Shore will have to push their way onto the team and leave no doubt that they're ready if GM Brad Treliving and co. are going to even consider keeping them around. They need to show well tonight because there aren't many games left to leave an impression.
- The Bennett - Backlund - Frolik line is very intriguing. All three players can get around the ice, produce offensively and handle themselves in the defensive zone. I'm not sure how long it will last - Bob Hartley and Treliving said they want Bennett playing center - but I think this could be a good line if it sticks.
- I think Ryan Wilson has shown well and has a good chance of playing his way onto the team. Another solid outing or two could be enough to earn a contract.
- The Flames were hoping one (or two) of their goaltenders would separate themselves from the pack this preseason and to this point that hasn't happened. It's for good reason, though, as all three have shown very well.
Joni Ortio looks ready for some NHL starts while Karri Ramo has .938 save percentage through five periods and Hiller has a .952 save percentage through 4.5. These guys are really making things tough on Treliving.
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