Flames aim to extend winning streak against Islanders
The Calgary Flames are set to face the New York Islanders Saturday at 2 p.m. MT. This game is part of a four-game road trip for the Flames, who are looking to build on their recent success. They won their last two games against the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers. A victory against the Islanders would improve their standing in the race for a playoff spot. Currently, the Flames hold 75 points and are chasing the St. Louis Blues, who have 77 points and occupy the second wild card position in the Western Conference. The Vancouver Canucks sit in between them with 76 points. In a similar situation, the Islanders are just outside the Eastern Conference’s second wild card spot. Calgary's head coach, Ryan Huska, noted the importance of each game in this critical time of year. The Flames had a notable comeback earlier in the season against the Islanders, winning in a shootout after tying the game late. In roster news, the Islanders recently signed forward Gleb Veremyev, a prospect from Colorado College, to a two-year contract. For the Flames, captain Mikael Backlund is out with an upper-body injury, and both Justin Kirkland and Anthony Mantha are gone for the season due to knee injuries. Calgary has been strong offensively, winning 30 consecutive games when they score four or more goals, the longest streak in the NHL.