Remember all of that stuff about the Edmonton Oilers being on a stunning winning streak, one that got them into playoff position?
Much of it applies to their blood rivals the Calgary Flames, only they might be doing it a touch better.
For one thing, their winning streak is already longer. They’re now at seven straight victories - a perfect record in December - and they’re now the ones who are seated in the third spot in the putrid (but maybe fascinating?) Pacific.
Something of a statement vs. the Stars?
They’ve shadowed the Oilers in winning a lot of close games, including four beyond regulation, but Thursday’s win stands out as one of their most promising victories yet.
They beat the Dallas Stars, aka the NHL’s top team, by a score of 3-1. They didn’t even always look outmatched, although they absolutely leaned on Karri Ramo (who made 35 out of 36 saves).
The cherry on top: it’s actually the second time they beat the Stars during this stretch, as they opened December with a 4-3 shootout win in Calgary.
Much like those pesky Oilers, the Flames still have plenty to prove. Still, the Pacific’s so wide-open that one of those Alberta rivals might just prove themselves enough to make the playoffs.