The Calgary Flames look to take a 2-0 series lead as they host the Edmonton Oilers in Game Two of the Western Conference Semifinals, tonight in the Battle of Alberta. After taking the Under in Game 1 (eyeroll), I am going with the over in Game 2. While I don't see 15 goals being scored, I do see both offenses having their way again. Edmonton goalie Mike Smith was pulled after giving up 3 goals on 7 1st period shots. Smith has had a great playoff season thus far but he is a very streaky goaltender.
During the regular season he gave up 3 or more goals 13 times. He gave up 3 or more goals in 8 of the following games, not exactly shutdown material. Including the regular season, Overs are 4-1 between these teams, with 48 total goals being scored. The Flames have now dropped 9 goals on Edmonton in 2 straight games. Calgary has been an offensive force all season long. They can also play a low scoring game if they need to, as evidenced in the Dallas series. While the 2nd round has seen unders in 5 of the 6 games, I think this series will continue to see a good amount of goals. There is plenty of bad blood between these teams, which led to 7 Power plays in Game one, although only 1 Power Play goal was scored.
Both of these teams are top 3 in expected goals for and high danger scoring chances in the playoffs. I like offenses to shine again tonight in Game 2.
