2025-09-29 Calgary at Seattle Matchup Preview
This playoff clash between Calgary and Seattle promises a hard-fought battle as both teams look to advance.
Offensive Outlook
The Calgary Flames enter this playoff matchup with an offense geared towards generating a high volume of shots, averaging 29.44 shots for per game. Their ability to consistently put pucks on net will test Seattle's defensive resolve and goaltending. Maintaining puck possession and establishing offensive zone time will be crucial for Calgary to capitalize on their scoring opportunities. One of Calgary's primary focuses to maximize their offensive efforts is to improve their power play percentage.
Defensive Analysis
Seattle's defensive structure allows 28.56 shots against per game, aiming to limit high-danger scoring chances and protect their net. Their defensive corps will be tasked with containing Calgary's forwards and disrupting their offensive flow. Seattle's success hinges on their ability to minimize turnovers in their own zone and effectively clear rebounds. One of the keys for them will be improving on their penalty kill percentage. This will be important in keeping Calgary off the scoresheet.
Special Teams Considerations
Special teams could play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of this game. Calgary's power play unit will be looking to exploit any penalties called against Seattle, while Seattle's penalty kill will be focused on shutting down Calgary's man-advantage opportunities. Conversely, Seattle will need to capitalize on their own power play chances, while Calgary will aim to stifle Seattle's power play with an improved penalty kill. Maintaining discipline and avoiding unnecessary penalties will be paramount for both teams. Calgary has a faceoff win percentage of 46.24%, and will likely need to improve to win more puck possesion, while Seattle has a faceoff win percentage of 48.56%.
Goaltending Matchup
The goaltending matchup will be a significant factor in this contest. Both teams will rely on their netminders to make crucial saves and provide a calming presence in the crease. The ability to track pucks through traffic, make timely saves, and control rebounds will be essential for both goaltenders. A strong performance between the pipes could easily swing the game in either team's favor. Look for whichever goalie has the hot hand to steal this game.
Seattle's Defensive Gameplan
Seattle's defensive strategy will need to directly counter Calgary's offensive strengths. Seattle's ability to limit shots against will be tested by Calgary's offensive output. Seattle's ability to neutralize Calgary's forwards will be key to keeping the game close. Strong defensive zone coverage and effective communication will be crucial for Seattle to withstand Calgary's offensive pressure. To accomplish this, they will need to improve upon their goals against per game.
Calgary's Offensive Adjustments
Calgary's offensive approach will need to adapt to Seattle's defensive tactics. Calgary's ability to consistently generate shots on goal will need to be matched with efficiency in converting those opportunities. Calgary's forwards will need to be creative and find ways to break through Seattle's defensive structure. Capitalizing on rebounds and creating screens in front of the net will be essential for Calgary to maximize their scoring potential.
Game Prediction
This promises to be a tight, low-scoring affair, with Calgary's slight offensive edge and defensive capabilities giving them a marginal advantage. Expect Calgary to control the pace of the game with consistent pressure, ultimately leading to a narrow victory.
Predicted Score
Calgary: 3, Seattle: 2