The Flames are no better point-wise than they were a year ago, and its likely because the Western Conference race is much, much closer this time around.

   Heading into Wednesday’s final game before Christmas hosting St. Louis, the Flames have 44 points. The same number of points they had last year at the Yuletide break.  The difference, the 44 points were amassed in 34 games last year, now it’s in 35 games.

   In reality, the Flames may be better this time around considering closeness in the Western Conference. 

   At the Christmas break last year the Flames led the NW Division by one point over Vancouver. Now they are trailing Colorado by 4 points but have 3 games in hand. The West was led by San Jose in ’08 with 58 points with Detroit second having 51.   Now the Sharks lead Chicago Blackhawks by 2 points are in a very close first place chase. 

   Overall, last year the separation between 1st and 10th was 21 points. Now its 5 points from 1st to 7th where the Flames are located.  From top-to-bottom last year a 29-point different, now its 15 points.

   The Flames will be looking to avenge last Tuesday’s 4-3 loss in St. Louis against the Blues.  Andy Murray’s team has some aims as well.   The Blues are looking to win 3-straight for the first time this season and seeking a Western Canada sweep for the first time ever after wins at Vancouver and Edmonton on Sunday and Monday.   

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