Welcome back to the return of NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head matchups and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. This NHL Predictions article looks at the Philadelphia Flyers versus Calgary Flames 2024-25 NHL Flames home opener in Calgary.
NHL Predictions
Philadelphia Flyers vs Calgary Flames
Time: 8 p.m. Mountain Standard Time (MST)
TV: ESPN+; SN West; City TV
Calgary Flames Home Opener
Expectations for the Flames this year are that they will finish near the bottom of the league as they are rebuilding. This group isn’t stacked with any game-breaking talent. They will need to rely on solid team play and contributions for everyone to win games. The inexperience both on defence and in goal means the Flames are susceptible to mistakes. They will need to bring a consistent effort and stay engaged even when mistakes happen. Their season opener was the perfect example of how this team can find success even when they fall behind by sticking to the game plan and competing for a full 60 minutes.
The Flames are coming off a thrilling win over Vancouver in their season opener. The Flames started the game sloppy and got into penalty trouble following a big hit on Kevin Rooney. After trailing the game 4-1 through one period. The Flames battled back to eventually win 6-5 in overtime. The Flames should come into their home opener well rested with 3 days off before this game. Expect the Flames to play a tighter game defensively and make a concerted effort to be more disciplined.
Philadelphia Flyers On The Road
Heading into last season Philadelphia was expected to be a bottom team as they continued their rebuild. However, under the direction of head coach John Tortorella the Flyer over-achieved. They pushed for a playoff spot right until the end of the season. The Flyers find themselves in a similar situation to Calgary this season, although they are a little further along than the Flames. They are in the process of rebuilding and looking to develop young players into their new core. As with any Tortorella team, you can expect this team to play a hard-nosed style of hockey, built on effort and discipline.
Unlike the Flames, the Flyers will have a potential game-breaking talent on their team this season. Matvei Michkov joined the Flyers this offseason and is one of the most exciting young prospects in hockey. The Flyers will look to play sound defensive team first hockey, then rely on their offensive-skill players to capitalize on their opportunities when they arise.
Prediction
The Flames and Flyers played split their two games last season with both games being decided by one goal. This game should be competitive and a blowout would be surprising. Both teams sport relatively uncertain creases and young defence so expect some goals. The Flyers will be playing a second of a back-to-back, after starting their season in Vancouver Friday night. The Flames should be able to take advantage of a tired Flyers group and improve to 2-0-0 on the season.
Prediction: Flames win 5-3.
Bets of the Night
Fanduel has the over/under set to 6.5 goals, we’re leaning towards the over with the inexperience on defence and goal for both teams. We also like Nazem Kadri (+180) as an any time goal scorer for Calgary.
Main Photo: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
