Flames Keeping Pace

While satisfied with the upward direction in which the Calgary Flames appeared to be moving at the continuation of the 2022-23 season, GM Jeff Irvine made a few tweaks to add some veteran leadership and scoring to help mentor rising star Jack Hughes. Centre Boone Jenner was added to bring leadership to the club and to help solidify the second line. He has responded with 12 goals and 30 points in the first half while also contributing 61 hits and a 55% faceoff percentage. In need of some scoring punch, Nino Niederreiter was brought in to ensure two solid top lines. While he hasn't quite panned out as expected, he seems to have found his groove and has contributed 4 points in his last 3 games bringing hope for a solid second half. 

Erik Haula was a necessary add as he brings veteran leadership and a solid defensive game while chipping in with 7 goals from his third line. Defenseman Jacob Trouba leads the Calgary team with 71 blocked shots and 81 hits while sitting second among the Flames defense with 29 points. The resurgence of winger Andrew Mangiapane and the emergence of new top line winger Owen Tippett have also helped the Flames continue its ascent up the standings. 

With a modest 3 game win streak including a solid game against Division leader Vegas, the Flames are on the way to becoming one of top teams in the Western Conference.