Where Are The Flames Hockey Team From
The Calgary Flames are a professional ice hockey team based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Founded in 1972, the team is a member of the National Hockey League's (NHL) Pacific Division in the Western Conference. They play their home games at the Scotiabank Saddledome, which was previously known as the Pengrowth Saddledome until 2010.
History of the Flames Hockey Team
The Flames were originally known as the Atlanta Flames and were one of two NHL expansions teams that entered the league for the 1972-73 season. However, after just eight seasons in Atlanta, the team was purchased by a group of Calgary businessmen and moved north to Canada in 1980.
Since then, the Flames have been a beloved part of the city of Calgary, and the team has experienced several ups and downs over the years. They have made it to the Stanley Cup Finals three times in their history: in 1986, 1989, and 2004. However, they have only won the championship once, in 1989.
Current Flames Roster and Coaching Staff
The Flames' current roster features several talented players, including captain Mark Giordano, forward Johnny Gaudreau, and goalie Jacob Markstrom. The team is coached by Darryl Sutter, who returned to the Flames in 2021 after previously coaching the team from 2002 to 2006. He replaced Geoff Ward, who was fired midway through the 2020-21 season.
Flames Rivalries
Like any sports team, the Flames have several rivals that they have built up intense rivalries with over the years. Some of the Flames' biggest rivals include:
- Vancouver Canucks
- Edmonton Oilers
- Montreal Canadiens
- Toronto Maple Leafs
The rivalry between the Flames and the Canucks is especially intense and has been dubbed the "Battle of Alberta" due to the geographic proximity of the two teams.
Conclusion
Overall, the Calgary Flames are a storied franchise with a rich history in the NHL. From their early days in Atlanta to their current status as a beloved Canadian team, the Flames have captured the hearts of fans across North America. Whether they're battling their rivals on the ice or fighting for a chance to hoist the Stanley Cup, the Flames are sure to continue to be one of the NHL's most exciting and beloved teams for years to come.