The Calgary Flames are set to face the San Jose Sharks tonight at the SAP Center, with the puck set to drop at 7 PM PT (8 PM MT). The Flames, currently positioned at 16 wins, 11 losses, and 7 overtime losses, are coming off a decisive 6-4 victory against the Chicago Blackhawks and hope to maintain their momentum with the same lineup.
On the other hand, the Sharks are struggling this season with 11 wins, 21 losses, and 6 overtime losses, hoping for any spark to get out of the current losing streak they’ve found themselves on.
Both teams will be closely monitored as this is their first meeting of the season, but the Flames have had the upper hand historically, having won both of their encounters last season, including a close 3-2 overtime victory last April.
At the forefront for the Flames is goalie Dustin Wolf, who is known for his impressive performances against the Sharks. At only 23 years old, Wolf, who hails from nearby Gilroy, California, holds three of his 18 career NHL wins against the Sharks. The young netminder showcased his skills last season with 20 saves leading to the overtime win, and he will be facing Yaroslav Askarov, 22, who is making his fifth start this season for the Sharks.
Wolf may be feeling the pressure but remains confident, stating, "I always enjoy playing against my hometown team; it's always special." Meanwhile, the Sharks look to turn things around with their own young talent, Macklin Celebrini, shining brightly on the ice. At just 18 years of age, he has quickly found his place on the team, already ranking third among San Jose's scoring leaders with 26 points.
Head coach Ryan Warsofsky has expressed his excitement for Celebrini’s role tonight, acknowledging the pressure young NHL players can feel when facing experienced teams like the Flames. Celebrini’s performance will be something to watch as he continues to develop his game, as he not only brings scoring potential but also energy and speed.
The battle of the lines will be important as Flames defenseman Kevin Bahl and Rasmus Andersson are expected to take on the heavy load of keeping Celebrini at bay. Bahl remarked, "It’s going to be a fun one. He’s got speed and hunger, so we’ve got to be on our toes tonight."
On the Sharks’ side, Warsofsky mentioned their new forward Nikolai Kovalenko, who has had some ups and downs recently. After starting off strong with five assists in eight games since joining the team, he has been scoreless for the last four games. Warsofsky called for more consistent play, which may play heavily on the Sharks’ success against the Flames tonight.
The Sharks' goalie situation has also experienced turbulence with the injury to Vitek Vanecek, suffering from a puck-related injury days ago. Warsofsky offered some good news, noting Vanecek's injury is week-to-week, providing hope for his swift return to the ice.
With preparations complete, coaches and players are focusing on execution. Flames’ coach Ryan Huska emphasized the importance of staying prepared and recognizing the Sharks’ array of skilled players, saying, "We need to make sure we’re ready to play the way we need to play to have success. This is going to set the tone for us before the break."
All eyes will be on the ice tonight as the Sharks look to quell their break with the Flames and break the losing streak. The anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting encounter between the Flames and Sharks at the SAP Center.
