Full Breakdown
Calgary Flames Face Chicago Blackhawks in Crucial Matchup
1/16/2026, 4:40:26 AM
Game Overview
The Calgary Flames are set to conclude their five-game road trip against the Chicago Blackhawks tonight at 6:30 p.m. MT. The game will be broadcast live on Sportsnet West and Sportsnet 960 The Fan. The Flames enter this matchup with a record of 19 wins, 23 losses, and 4 overtime losses, totaling 42 points, while the Blackhawks have 19 wins, 20 losses, and 7 overtime losses, with 45 points.
Current Team Performance
The Flames have struggled recently, holding a 1-3-0 record during this road trip and a disappointing 1-5-0 record in 2026. They have been outscored 23-11 in this calendar year, with only two players, Connor Zary and Rasmus Andersson, scoring more than one goal. The team has faced significant challenges in generating offensive plays, which are critical for their playoff aspirations.
Conversely, the Blackhawks have shown improvement, boasting a 5-2-0 record in 2026. They recently welcomed back star player Connor Bedard, who has made a significant impact, scoring four goals and contributing to seven points in two games against the Flames this season. The Blackhawks have scored a total of nine goals against the Flames in their previous matchups this season.
Lineup and Player Changes
For the Flames, the projected lineup includes forwards Connor Zary, Nazem Kadri, Adam Klapka, and Jonathan Huberdeau, among others. Devin Cooley is expected to start in goal, with Dustin Wolf as the backup. Dryden Hunt has been called up and will make his return to the lineup, while Nazem Kadri and Morgan Frost have swapped lines. The Flames will be without several players, including Martin Pospisil and Blake Coleman.
The Blackhawks' lineup features forwards Ryan Greene, Connor Bedard, and Andre Burakovsky. Spencer Knight is projected to start in net, backed up by Arvid Soderblom. Chicago is also missing key players, including Shea Weber and Frank Nazar, due to injuries.
Head-to-Head Matchup
This game marks the third and final meeting between the Flames and Blackhawks this season. The Blackhawks have won both previous encounters decisively, with a combined score of 9-2. The Flames will need to improve their performance to avoid a third defeat against Chicago.
Official Statements & Responses
The Flames have acknowledged their need to enhance their offensive output to keep playoff hopes alive. Coach comments reflect a sense of urgency regarding the team's performance, emphasizing the importance of scoring goals.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out the Flames' inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and their overall lack of offensive depth. This has raised concerns about their competitiveness in the league and their chances of making the playoffs.
What's Next
Following this matchup, the Flames will return home, where they will look to regroup and address their offensive struggles as they prepare for upcoming games. The Blackhawks will aim to build on their recent success and continue their momentum in the league.
