Once More Unto The Breach - Flames @ Canucks Game 5 Preview

Calgary Flames @ Vancouver Canucks - 8PM MT

CBC, CNBC, TVA (TV), OMNI (Punjabi TV), Sportsnet 960 The FAN (Radio)

Before we begin, a bit of culture.

Do you know what Game 4 (recap/stats) reminded me of? The game against the Maple Leafs, when the Flames just dominated, and never looked troubled - even when they conceded. As soon as the second goal went in, I was comfortable, and thought that was that. The Canucks started the game looking shellshocked and finished it despondent. Can they turn it around? Sure. Will they?

I'm not brave enough to say no yet.

But, let's look at the evidence. Michael Ferland has had the freedom of the series, and is dictating the pace of the game. Sam Bennett is blossoming right in front of our eyes, showing all the potential that has us very excited. TJ Brodie is getting back to his best, and forcing play forward the way that only he really can on this side. The top line are coming into games now, with Johnny Gaudreau the best of them, and Jiri Hudler seeming to shake off whatever has been wrong with him. Jonas Hiller has been solid and steady, with moments of flash and wonder.

The Canucks? Well, the Sedins look up for the battle, as does Bo Horvat, but does anybody else? Eddie Lack looks to have been chased out of the series, Kevin Bieksa's too interested in trying to second-guess Michael Ferland, and the rest have been stunned into submission.

With all that said, the Flames are at a point, after two great home performances, where they need one win from the remaining three games of the series, and while it would be nice for them to do it at the Saddledome in front of the C of Red, it would be even better if they were to do it at Rogers Arena tonight.

Playoff Leaders

Potential Starting Lineups (Subject To Change)

Alex Burrows is officially done for the series, suffering a broken/dislodged rib (dependent on who you believe) after allegedly taking a puck to the chest in practice before Game 4. Brandon McMillan drew in, not that you'd have noticed on the night.

Ryan Miller gets the start, as does Sven Baertschi. Brad Richardson will be a game-time decision.

The Flames are expected to retain the same lineup: if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Join M&G in the gamethread, where we'll comparing Eddie Lack's father with Michael Ferland's mother (spoiler: Mama Ferland wins).