Calgary Flames - Winnipeg Jets predictions and free betting tips [12/10/2023]

On the eve of the NHL season start, the Winnipeg Jets are heading to Calgary for a match-up with the local Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome. I'm backing an away victory for this match.

Calgary Flames

The Flames are in a process of recovery following a tough season. Last year's disappointing performance, when the team fell just 2 points shy of the 8th playoff spot, fuels motivation for their players. With the appointment of new coach Ryan Huska, the atmosphere within the team has changed. New signees, including Belarusian Yegor Sharangovich and Jordan Oesterle, augment the squad, while the departure of Milan Lucic and Tyler Toffoli opens up new opportunities. Key player Elias Lindholm is negotiating a contract, and media outlets report potentially successful talks. Calgary hopes for a return to form for Jacob Markstrom and Jonathan Huberdeau who had a subpar season. Young talents Matt Coronato and Adam Ruzicka have the opportunity to shine, adding ambition to the roster. The depth of the squad will be tested, and the adaptation of the young players could be a critical factor in the team's playoff plans. The Flames' objective is clear: a deep playoff run is the only acceptable outcome for this victory-oriented team.

Winnipeg Jets

The Jets roster is heading into the new season with good prospects for playoff participation, albeit with a degree of uncertainty. The future of key players Mark Scheifele and goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has been a talking point among fans and analysts. Scheifele, who scored 42 goals last season, and Vezina trophy-holder Hellebuyck, are considered significant figures in the team. Last season, the Jets clung to the last playoff spot in the Western Conference, only to be ousted in the first round.
The off-season has brought changes to the squad: Pierre-Luc Dubois was traded away to the Kings while Blake Wheeler exited the team. This has paved the way for rookies Gabriel Vilardi and Alex Iafallo. Despite ending the season with 46 wins and 95 points, important decisions need to be made off the ice. Jets General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff could instigate trades if the season doesn't go as planned. Special attention is given to the rookies. Vilardi, who scored 10 goals in 15 matches for Kings and dependable forward Iafallo could significantly bolster the team's attack. In defence, Josh Morrissey demonstrated excellent results, accumulating 76 points. The team's success in the new season largely hinges on how quickly the new players can adapt and whether Morrissey can continue his achievements. It's critical for the team to retain Scheifele and Hellebuyck, and their future contracts could significantly affect the team's onward development.

Prediction for the Calgary Flames - Winnipeg Jets match

For the second matchday, I'm betting on Winnipeg Jets. Winnipeg boast strong chances for a successful season kickoff with a solid roster ready for the playoffs, despite uncertainties around team veterans Scheifele and Hellebuyck. Scheifele with his goals and Conor with his goalkeeping skills might propel the team far into the playoffs. Wise off-season moves have also fortified the team's standing, rookies will bring depth to the lineup, making the team more competitive. If the new players quickly adapt, and Morrissey repeats his impressive season, the Jets have all the chances for manoeuvring deep into the playoffs.