1. Ana-lyze This
The Flames practiced Monday morning at the Scotiabank Saddledome, then arrived in Anaheim Monday afternoon ahead of this two-game, Pacific Division series that begins Tuesday evening at Honda Center.
Saturday's 4-2 setback at the hands of these same Ducks could have gone either way. Calgary put forth its most complete effort of the young season and Tuesday, they'll get another crack at Anaheim with an eye on putting one in the win column for the first time in 2026-27.
Like his players, Flames Head Coach Ryan Huska is eager to see some positive results on the scoreboard, but he mentioned Monday that he's seen improvement from the group since the season began Oct. 1.
"I think every game since then, we've taken steps in the right direction," Huska said, shortly before the team jetted south. "A lot of the areas that we asked the players to focus on, our last game here at home against Anaheim, we did some really good things. So it's about building on those things. Understanding the areas that we still have to get better, and that focus and preparation all comes into play for our group, and understanding that, 'Hey, a certain decision that I make at any given time in the game could impact the outcome of a game.'
"It's getting them to understand that every shift matters in regards to how we want to play, and we want to keep building in the direction that we are going in and have another good effort in Anaheim."
Forward Sam Honzek did not make the trip Monday after being listed as 'week-to-week' with a lower-body ailment suffered this past Thursday against Colorado.
It's another blow for the young winger - a player who's had to face injury adversity throughout his WHL and pro career - but Huska remained optimistic this latest setback wouldn't keep the young Slovak sidelined for too long.
"We'll miss him for sure," said Huska. "The speed that he brings to our lineup is something that's very valuable.
"Hopefully, it's the shorter end of the week to week (prognosis). Unfortunately, at a young age, he's had some pretty big (injuries) to deal with, but I do think he has a better idea of how to handle these types of things now."
