Welcome back to NHL Predictions! After the holiday break, the San Jose Sharks take on the surprising Calgary Flames. Today, like every day, Last Word on Hockey looks at the games happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head matchups and other factors that may play in. Let’s look at the Sharks facing off against the Flames. Finally, be sure to check out more predictions for all the NHL’s games throughout the 2024-25 season.
NHL Predictions
Calgary Flames at San Jose Sharks
Time: 10 p.m. EST (Eastern Standard Time)
TV: NBCSCA, CBC, ESPN+
Same Old Story for the Sharks
Following the Christmas break, the Sharks’ first game against the Golden Knights was supposed to be a step to get back on track. Instead, a third-period collapse spelled more of the same for the team. The team actually entered the third period with a 3-2 lead, before Vegas stormed back to take the lead and win the game. Tyler Toffoli and William Smith scored in the second period, while Shakir Mukhamadullin netted his first career NHL goal. Smith also earned an assist on Mukhamadullin’s marker. Additionally, Fabian Zetterlund had two assists, while Macklin Celebrini picked up where he left off with a point. He continues his point-per-game pace.
Alexandar Georgiev saw the net against Vegas and continued to struggle. He surrendered five, three of which came in the third period. His SV% continues to sit under .800. Georgiev has struggled since coming over from the Colorado Avalanche, struggling to make crucial saves when they need it. On the other hand, Yaroslav Askarov, when he’s in the net, has given the team a chance to win no matter how many shots he sees. With Vitek Vanecek still on injured reserve, Askarov will certainly see the net against the Flames.
The Overachieving Flames
Coming into this season, many expected the Flames to contend for the first overall pick, rather than a playoff spot. Instead, the club sits two points out of a wild card spot. Jonathan Huberdeau has had a bounce-back season, with 25 points so far. Nazem Kadri and youngster Connor Zary join Huberdeau with over 20 points. Additionally, Matthew Coronato has nine goals in his first full year with meaningful minutes. Defensively, the team is led by Mackenzie Weegar and Rasmus Andersson. Weegar has 18 points and is anchoring the team’s power play, while Andersson is down at 15 points from the back end.
The biggest story for the Flames, however, has been the play of Dustin Wolf. The 23-year-old has burst onto the scene and given Calgary great goaltending. Wolf’s stats are certainly better at home than on the road, but he’s still getting the job done regardless. Since this game against the Sharks is the team’s first game back from the break, expect Wolf between the pipes to help get a win.
Prediction
The Sharks continue to give fans a reason not to believe. They can’t seem to hold onto a lead and have really struggled to keep the puck out of the net. That being said, the Flames have had trouble scoring, which presents an opportunity for the Sharks to take advantage. Askarov will be in the net, so the Sharks should finally come through with a win.
Prediction: San Jose wins 3-1
Main Photo: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
The post NHL Predictions: Dec. 28 San Jose Sharks vs. Calgary Flames appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.