Edmonton Oilers at Calgary Flames [Game 49]

The Calgary Flames lost some leverage in their chase for the playoffs in their last game against the Nashville Predators, but were fortunate enough to watch the Kings drop a game to the last place New York Islanders. Their challenge tonight should prove more formidable than the Predators as they take on the Edmonton Oilers in the last game of the battle of Alberta. If you’re thinking it’s weird and dumb of the N.H.L. to schedule all of them this early in the season, we have nothing – it is in fact a stupid decision.

The Flames will make the lineup change that everyone expected – Sam Bennett draws in for Freddie Hamilton. Bennett’s scratch was peculiar; a team that’s forced to ice Lance Bouma and Troy Brouwer every night cannot afford to scratch a player like Bennett who despite his struggles has been considerably better than both. It’s good to see them come to their senses in that regard.

Nothing is changing on defense. Square pegs into round holes as Brett Kulak is either being protected from Las Vegas or got caught urinating in Glen Gulutzan’s coffee. Commence keyboard smashing.

Chad Johnson obviously gets the starting nod. He’s been the starter and this is an important game both in the standings and in terms of bragging rights. Edmonton can complete the sweep of Calgary tonight and Johnson is the best option to stop the bleeding.

by Les Mavus