Winnipeg Jets travel to play against and Calgary Flames – NHL Preview
Winnipeg Jets got their eighth position in National Hockey League (NHL) Eastern Conference snatched and now Washington Capitals are enjoying the ease of being among the teams that are expected to qualify for the playoffs from the conference.
In order to once again secure the playoff spot, Jets have to defeat Calgary Flames on Friday, March 9, 2012, at Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
On the other hand, Flames are also not very far away from reaching a playoff spot in the Western Conference, but they have to show consistency in terms of winning games to enter the playoffs.
Let’s have a look at both teams.
Jets
They have lost three of their last five games with the recent defeat coming against Vancouver Canucks.
After the goalless first period, Jets and Canucks scored apiece in the second. Jets added another goal in the final period whereas Canucks got two.
Jets’ coach, Claude Noel, said after the game:
"We didn't deserve to … win the game. You can't play a B-game against Vancouver; they are too good, too skilled. They could have beat us way more than they beat us tonight, and having said that we had a chance to win it. Our goalie was good and gave us a
chance, which he does all the time."
Jets are ranked at ninth spot in the Eastern Conference with 72 points after 68 games. The eighth-ranked Capitals also have the same number of points and a victory for Jets can once again bring them up in the conference.
Flames
Flames have played four games this month and have won two. The recent victory came against Montreal Canadiens.
Flames got two goals in the first period while conceding one. Flames added two more and gave away another in the second.
Flames increased the lead to three goals early in the third period, but Canadiens gave them a tough time in the final minutes and scored twice. However, they still fell one goal short.
Flames’ right wing, Jarome Iginla, said after the game”
"We've been going through a tough stretch and sometimes when it goes like that, you just need to get that one to get over that hump.”
He added:
"It's not pretty, but it's still a very important win for us and breaks a bad streak at home and something to build on."
Flames are ranked at 11th spot in the Western Conference with 72 points after 67 games.
Predictions
Jets have an edge.
The sum of goals scored by both teams might stay under six.
If Flames win, the winning margin will be two or more goals.
Tags: