Calgary Flames (13-14-5) vs. Anaheim Ducks (12-19-0)
Calgary Flames vs. Anaheim Ducks 12/21/23 – As NHL regular season action heats up, an exciting matchup between Calgary Flames and Anaheim Ducks will take place Thursday December 21, 2023 at Honda Center – promising an action-packed night! Both sides currently boast 13-14-5 records with 13-14-5 seeking to improve upon those records while 12-19-0 Ducks want an upset victory! This match-up, key for both standings is eagerly anticipated by both fans and bettors looking for free hockey picks alike; fans and bettors are sure to witness plenty of high-octane action come Thursday 21 December!
Calgary Flames’ offensive prowess this season has been highly variable. Their captains Nazem Kadri, Blake Coleman, and Elias Lindholm have played key roles in driving forward momentum; Kadri’s 22 points from 8 goals and 14 assists despite having a negative plus/minus rating speak volumes about his importance to Calgary’s offense; Coleman and Lindholm add depth with goal scoring abilities that keep opponents guessing while Coleman adds versatility through time on ice; this offensive lineup poses significant difficulties to an Anaheim Ducks defense that has had struggles but also moments of resilience this season; when facing off against this offensive lineup it could spell doom for them – an opponent like this lineup could cause havoc as an opponent side could do its opponents.
Conversely, Anaheim Ducks boast their offensive strengths with Frank Vatrano, Mason McTavish, and Troy Terry as its focal points. Vatrano brings sharpshooting presence while McTavish’s high shooting percentage of 15.9% cannot go unnoticed while Terry contributes all-around play balancing attack with all-around play – these three will test Calgary Flames defense capabilities which have shown glimpses of cohesion recently.
Calgary Flames vs. Anaheim Ducks Game Info
| When: | Thursday, December 21, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Honda Center |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Jacob Markstrom vs. Goaltender John Gibson
Jacob Markstrom will make an impressive opponent against John Gibson when the Calgary Flames face the Anaheim Ducks on March 31. Markstrom has seen both moments of greatness and disappointment so far this season for Calgary while acting as goaltender on their behalf, protecting Markstrom against them all the same. Gibson has seen more consistency over time for Anaheim than Markstrom has this campaign with Calgary. His 0.896 save percentage and 2.95 goals-against average (GAA) may not accurately represent his true capabilities, as he has proven an ability to make key saves at critical junctures of games. His experience can prove especially helpful during high pressure encounters in tightly-contested matches. Markstrom will play an instrumental role in the Flames’ success against a Ducks team equipped with offensive talent capable of testing even veteran goaltenders, such as keeping composure and staying resilient when facing rapid offensive onslaughts. It could make or break this matchup.
John Gibson stands as an anchor of security for the Ducks. Even through their unrelenting struggles this year, Gibson has managed to post an admirable save percentage and 2.85 GAA despite immense offensive pressure being applied upon his goaltender position. Gibson will present the Flames attackers with an enormous challenge as his agility and reflexes make him an indestructible foe in goal, keeping the Ducks competitive throughout this matchup. Gibson is essential in maintaining their competitive edge against them. Gibson has shown incredible skill at making spectacular saves and mentally withstanding high-pressure situations, not only preventing critical goals from the Flames offense but also increasing team morale and confidence. Gibson will play an indispensable role if Anaheim can overcome Calgary in any given game; their fate depends on him!
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds for this match-up remain unknown at present; they will play an instrumental role in how bettors approach it. Given each team’s standings and recent performances, odds should likely be closely contested between competitors.
Calgary Flames Betting Trends
The Flames have experienced mixed results lately, posting a 2-3 record over their past five games but an improved 3-2 mark when looking at spread performance. Their road game performance against spread remains challenging at 7-10; two out of their past five total went over and hinted that high scoring affairs might occur during away contests.
Anaheim Ducks Betting Trends
The Ducks also show signs of consistency, with an identical record in their last five matches (3-2 against the spread) as their record in home matches (10-6 against spread). Impressively, however, their road performance stands out significantly with 10-6 coverage against spread (showing their ability to thrive under pressure when traveling away games) but only one out of their last five total went over, signalling lower-scoring matches overall.
Calgary Flames vs. Anaheim Ducks 12/21/23 Betting Picks
By taking into consideration each team’s performances, standings and individual player statistics, this matchup looks to be closely contested. While the Flames might possess an edge due to their superior overall record, don’t discount their opponent’s resilience on the road!
Bettors might consider picking either team as safer options; the Flames might offer greater predictability while Ducks make for intriguing underdogs. As always, over/under will depend on goaltender performances and offensive leaders’ effectiveness on either side. In terms of expert handicapper picks, keeping an eye out on pregame odds as well as any last minute lineup changes will be essential.
Free Pick and Prediction: Calgary Flames 3, Anaheim Ducks 2.