The Calgary Flames (28-22-8) are set to face the Florida Panthers (36-21-3) in an intriguing non-conference matchup at Amerant Bank Arena on March 1, with puck drop scheduled for 3:00 PM EST. Here’s a detailed preview of what to expect:
Team Form and Recent Performances
- Calgary Flames: The Flames are coming off a tough 3-0 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, which snapped their two-game winning streak. They have struggled on the road this season, holding an 11-12-4 record. Calgary will look to bounce back and find consistency as they continue their road trip through the Sunshine State.
- Florida Panthers: The Panthers have been one of the hottest teams in the NHL recently, winning seven of their last nine games. They secured a 4-3 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in their most recent outing. Florida boasts a strong 18-10-2 home record and will aim to maintain their momentum.
Key Players to Watch
- Calgary Flames: Jonathan Huberdeau, with 22 goals and 21 assists, remains a key offensive contributor for the Flames. Defenseman MacKenzie Weegar has been impactful, tallying seven points in his last 10 games. Nazem Kadri leads the team in February with nine points, showcasing his playmaking ability.
- Florida Panthers: Sam Reinhart has been a standout for the Panthers, leading the team with 31 goals and 33 assists. Aleksander Barkov continues to be a playmaking force, with 40 assists this season. Sergei Bobrovsky is expected to start in goal and will be crucial in shutting down Calgary’s attack.
Head-to-Head and Historical Context
- This will be the second meeting between the two teams this season. The Flames won the first encounter 3-0, with a dominant performance. Historically, the Panthers have struggled against the Flames, but their recent form suggests they are ready to turn the tide.
Game Dynamics and Strategies
- The Panthers will look to capitalize on their strong power play, which ranks 11th in the league. Their ability to convert on special teams could be a deciding factor.
- The Flames, on the other hand, will aim to exploit Florida’s defensive lapses. Calgary’s penalty kill has been solid, and they will need to stay disciplined to avoid giving the Panthers opportunities on the man advantage.
Calgary Flames 5.5
Florida Panthers – 250
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 28, 2025
