TEAM EDITORIAL

The Calgary Flames have begun the 2026–27 season in difficult fashion, sitting at 0–2 after two losses and searching for a more complete performance. Their opener against the Seattle Kraken unraveled in a 6–1 defeat, with Dustin Wolf allowing six goals on 32 shots. Calgary showed greater structure and competitiveness in Vancouver, but a 4–1 loss to the Canucks exposed another damaging lapse: after Matt Coronato’s first-period power-play goal, the Flames surrendered four unanswered goals in the third period. Devin Cooley stopped 22 shots, while Coronato remains an early offensive bright spot.

The lineup has already undergone adjustments. Joel Hanley replaced Yan Kuznetsov on defense, while Brennan Othmann entered for Connor Zary, signaling that the coaching staff is willing to experiment as it seeks more consistency and urgency. The challenge extends beyond individual mistakes: Calgary has struggled to sustain pressure, protect leads, and manage momentum when opponents increase their intensity. The team’s effort in Vancouver was an improvement over opening night, but the collapse late in the game underscored how little margin for error exists.

Calgary now faces the Kraken on October 4, again confronting the opponent that delivered its most lopsided loss. A sharper defensive performance, steadier goaltending, and greater discipline through all three periods are essential if the Flames are to prevent an 0–3 start and establish a more credible identity.