Flames Can Beat the Sharks. But They Need to Fix One Thing

The Calgary Flames don't need to be perfect tonight in San Jose. But they do need to be considerably more consistent than they've been lately. The Sharks are struggling to put together a complete game, and that gives Calgary an opportunity. The question is whether the Flames can capitalize.

San Jose comes into this game after a 5-1 loss to Ottawa, with just one win in its past four games. Coach Ryan Warsofsky has been openly frustrated with his team's inability to play a full 60 minutes. That's worth remembering. The Sharks have talent, but they haven't put it together consistently. For Calgary, that should be an invitation.

The Flames Need to Make the Sharks Work for Everything.

First, the Flames need to stay disciplined and make San Jose earn its chances. The Sharks have been outshot in seven straight games, suggesting opponents have found ways to keep them from controlling the play. Calgary should try to do the same.

That means getting pucks deep, spending time in the offensive zone and making the Sharks defend for extended stretches. It also means avoiding the kind of defensive breakdowns that can turn a close game into a difficult evening in a hurry. The Flames know how quickly things can get away from them. They fell behind 4-0 against Colorado before finding some life in the third period. Against San Jose, they can't afford to spend half the game trying to climb out of a hole.

Farabee Could Be an Important Difference for the Flames.

Calgary has some encouraging offensive news. Joel Farabee has been producing consistently, with 12 points in his past eight games. His recent play gives the Flames another option when they're looking for offence, and they'll need players like him to keep contributing.

Calgary also needs to take advantage of its opportunities early. Against Colorado, coach Ryan Huska felt his team had some good stretches in the zone but didn't generate enough offence. Possession is useful, but it doesn't count for much if it doesn't lead to quality chances.

The Flames need to move the puck toward the net, create traffic, and make San Jose's goaltender work.

For the Flames, This Is the Chance to Make a Statement.

This is a rebuilding Calgary team, so nobody should expect a perfectly consistent performance every night. But games like this offer a chance to show that the group is learning how to compete through difficult stretches. The Sharks are looking for answers, too. If Calgary can frustrate them early, stay out of trouble defensively and turn its offensive zone time into scoring chances, the Flames have a real opportunity.

They don't need to outshine San Jose. They need to be the more dependable team for 60 minutes. And right now, that might be enough to win.