Jacob Markstrom moves on, but NOT the Flames

Last week, Calgary Flames goalie Jacob Markstrom declared that he “sucks at hockey.” On Tuesday, it sounded like Markstrom felt better about himself following practice despite his 889 save percentage and a 2.97 goals-against average in 17 starts so far this season.

“Sometimes you’re still upset and still angry and frustrated and that carries over into an interview 15 minutes after a game,” Markstrom said of last week’s comments, “where if you wait an hour and ask me the same question you would get a completely different answer.”

While Markstrom appears to have moved on, the Flames aren’t there. Though head coach Darryl Sutter and his players have vouched for Markstrom, he does not get the start tonight against the Minnesota Wild. 25-year-old Dan Vladar has been stellar in past games and will start in between the pipes.

Vladar earns this start as he has posted a .934 save percentage and a goals-against average under 2.00 in his last six outings. He recently signed a two-year extension with the Flames and is currently viewed by the organization as a future No. 1 goaltender.

Markstrom will need to prove to the Flames he can be better in between the pipes to offer Calgary the consistency it desperately needs. Especially if Vladar keeps up the stellar work.

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