A win tonight in Anaheim could change the whole complexion of the series outright. The momentum and confidence build for the Flames could tip the series. This is a big one.
So cool to see all the CPers from around the world tuning in!
What needs to be said to beat the Ducks has already been said. The team knows what it must and must not do.
I sure hope the Flames beat the Ducks so Oiler fans don't make fun of us for making fun of them...
Never before has a game 1 been more important then it has today. Beat the Ducks at HC, and the tide shifts in a way the franchise will not have seen in years. Common boys, do it!!
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My synopsis is this series comes down to three battles. Monahan-Kesler, Backlund-Getzlaf, and Elliott-Gibson.
This is interesting in that there are two potential Selke finalists in Kesler and Backlund tasked with shutting down the opposition's top offensive centers in Monahan and Getzlaf. Backlund/Kesler are basically a wash, though Kesler brings slightly more offense and that ability to get under the opposition's skin.
I don't think Monahan is ready to outplay Kesler for 20 minutes a night, night-in night-out. However, if he can outplay him in spots, that will go a long way. I think Ferklund will play a big role in opening up some space for Mony in this matchup. In a few years, I think Monahan wins this matchup but not yet.
Much of the same is true in reverse for Backlund-Getzlaf. Backlund can shut him down for most of the time, but it's how often Getzlaf breaks free from this coverage that will dictate. Getz has proven time and time again that when you give him space he makes you pay. That needs to happen as little as possible for us to have a chance.
And, obviously, Elliott has to outplay Gibson.
I think whoever wins the majority of these matchups wins the series.
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