Despite a much worse record we like Calgary here tonight for several reasons.
Montreal is playing the second of a back-to-back and third road game in four nights, so there could be some heavy legs. In addition, top defenseman Ben Chiarot will not be available after a fight in Wednesday's victory at Vancouver. Calgary is well-rested since not playing since Sunday and could get the new head coach boost as Darryl Sutter took over for the fired Geoff Ward on Monday. The Flames are favored for a reason here and we'll back them on Thursday night action.
Lastly, Montreal is 1-5 in its past six on the road.
Take the Calgary Flames as our 5* NHL Game of the Week!