3 Takeaways From Flames' 3-1 Loss to Canucks – Hockey Writers – Calgary Flames

The Calgary Flames' strong start to the 2024-25 season hasn't been without speedbumps, and that's exactly the speedbump they hit in last night's game against the Vancouver Canucks. The Flames weren't eliminated as the 2023-24 Pacific Division winners, but they couldn't do much.

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With the loss, the Flames sit at 8-6-3 on the season. A 3-1 defeat meant the end of the four points, although this game was expected to be tough. That being said, here are three key takeaways from last night's night out.

Significantly Tired Legs

Aside from their 3-1 win over the LA Kings last game, the Flames have struggled to start games as of late. However, for the second straight, that wasn't a problem, as they actually found themselves tied 1-0 going into the first break. The problem was that their match against the Kings they mentioned earlier was played 24 hours before.

Although they didn't look it in the first game, it became clear afterwards that the Flames didn't have the legs needed to compete with a strong Canucks team. They looked very tired as the game wore on, and failed to generate many scoring chances in the second and third periods.

That should not be a criticism, as this team was forced to fight hard last time against the Kings. The fact that they were able to keep things close against one of the better teams in the Western Conference actually speaks volumes for the character of this team, and should benefit them moving forward.

Kirkland Continues Newsletter Season

While the Flames' top players were quiet again in this game, Justin Kirkland continued his strong start to the season. The 28-year-old managed to beat Kevin Lankinen for his second of the season with a pass from Kevin Rooney. In terms of goals, Kirkland has seven points in 14 games.

While those total points may not be released, they are very impressive considering Kirkland didn't even make the Flames' roster in training camp. Instead he was recalled early, and, despite playing just nine NHL games before this season, he doesn't appear to be returning to the American Hockey League (AHL) anytime soon.

Vladar Solid Once Again

A major point of concern going into the 2024-25 season for the Flames was there, as there was much doubt that the duo of Dan Vladar and Dustin Wolf could get the job done. It's early days, but both have done an excellent job of proving many doubters wrong so far.

Vladar was solid again this time, turning aside 29 of the 32 shots he faced. Several were outstanding, including JT Miller's one-timer in the second half that made it look a lot easier than it was. After two less-than-stellar seasons, Vladar appears healthy and returning to being the Flames goaltender he initially thought he could be.

Facing the Flames

The Flames will now have two much-needed days off before returning to the Saddledome on Friday against the Nashville Predators. It's a great game, as the Preds have not only struggled a lot this season, but they will be in the second half of a back-to-back, as they will play the Edmonton Oilers the night before.

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Friday will be the last game for the Flames this week. Next up will see them face the New York Islanders on Tuesday, the New York Rangers on Thursday, and the Minnesota Wild on Saturday. All three have stepped back significantly as they look to stay in a playoff spot in the Western Conference.