The Calgary Flames' playoff aspirations, once deemed improbable, are gaining traction as the 2025-26 season progresses. After a shaky start, the team's recent performance has sparked renewed hope among fans and analysts alike.
Current Standings and Performance
As of December 8, 2025, the Calgary Flames hold a record of 12 wins, 15 losses, and 4 overtime losses. This places them sixth in the NHL's Pacific Division. While still in the lower half of the division, their recent surge has narrowed the gap between them and the playoff contenders. The team has scored 79 goals and allowed 92. In their most recent game, the Flames showcased their offensive capabilities with a 7-4 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. Before that, they beat Utah 2-0 and Minnesota 4-1.
Factors Contributing to the Surge
Several factors have contributed to the Flames' improved performance. Goaltending has been a key area, with Devin Cooley displaying a .920 save percentage through 11 appearances, ranking among the league's best. While Dustin Wolf has had struggles, Cooley's performance has provided stability in net. Offensively, Nazem Kadri leads the team with 22 points, including 17 assists, while Matt Coronato leads in goals with 9. The team's captain is Mikael Backlund.
Playoff Odds and Scenarios
Despite the improved play, the Flames still face an uphill battle to secure a playoff spot. As of early December, they were six points back of a playoff position in the Western Conference, a notable improvement from being 10 points back just two weeks prior. BetMGM's online sportsbook places the Flames' odds of reaching the Stanley Cup Final at +12500, which is the fourth-longest among Western Conference teams. Their odds of winning the Pacific Division are even longer, at +30000.
Management's Perspective
Internally, the Flames' management has expressed a desire to make the playoffs. This ambition is understandable, considering the team narrowly missed a playoff berth last season. However, some analysts predicted the Flames would finish last overall in the 2025-26 season. General Manager Craig Conroy faces crucial decisions regarding the roster, with potential trades involving key players like Rasmus Andersson, Nazem Kadri, and Blake Coleman.
The Debate: Tanking vs. Playoff Push
The Flames' improved performance has ignited a debate among fans: should the team aim for a playoff push or prioritize long-term prospects through tanking? Some argue that securing a high draft pick in the upcoming draft, which features elite prospects like Gavin McKenna, Keaton Verhoeff, and Ivar Stenberg, would be more beneficial for the organization's future. However, others contend that playoff experience for the team's young players would be invaluable, even if it means a lower draft pick.
Looking Ahead
The Calgary Flames' season remains one to watch. Their recent surge has made the prospect of playoff hockey at the Scotiabank Saddledome a realistic possibility. Whether the team can maintain this momentum and overcome the odds remains to be seen.
