Penguins and Flames Clash in Highly Anticipated Matchup

Pittsburgh looks to bounce back against Calgary after recent loss

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:22pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in vibrant shades of navy blue, gold, red, and yellow, breaking down a hockey game into sharp, overlapping geometric planes and forms, conceptually representing the strategic complexity and intensity of the matchup between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Calgary Flames.As the Penguins and Flames clash in a high-stakes hockey showdown, the game is deconstructed into a dynamic, cubist-inspired visual that captures the intensity and strategic complexity of the matchup.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to face off against the Calgary Flames in a highly anticipated NHL matchup on January 21, 2026. The Penguins, currently in third place in the Metropolitan Division, will be looking to avenge their recent loss to the Flames, who snapped Pittsburgh's six-game winning streak a couple of weeks ago. The game promises to be a battle of contrasting styles and strategies as the two teams compete for crucial points in the standings.

Why it matters

This game holds significant importance for both teams as they jockey for position in their respective divisions. The Penguins will be eager to regain their momentum after the loss to the Flames, while Calgary will be looking to build on their recent success and climb up the standings in the Pacific Division.

The details

The Penguins will be without the services of defenseman Erik Karlsson, who remains out with an injury. The team is also monitoring the status of Kris Letang, who missed practice due to an upper-body injury. The Flames, on the other hand, have made some notable changes since their last meeting with the Penguins, including the departure of defenseman Rasmus Andersson and the addition of Zach Whitecloud. The goaltending situation for the Flames is also intriguing, with Devin Cooley's recent strong performances challenging Dustin Wolf's status as the primary starter.

  • The game is scheduled for January 21, 2026, at 9:30 p.m. Eastern time.
  • The Penguins will then travel to Edmonton the next day, followed by a rare two-day break before wrapping up their road trip in Vancouver on Sunday.
  • The Flames are coming off a rollercoaster stretch, winning six out of their last 12 games (6-5-1).

The players

Sidney Crosby

The Penguins' captain continues to etch his name in the history books, recently surpassing Gordie Howe and closing in on Mark Messier and Marcel Dionne in the NHL's all-time scoring list.

Rickard Rakell

The Penguins forward is on a three-game point streak, and the team has a remarkable 12-2-2 record this season when he records a point.

Devin Cooley

The Flames' backup goaltender has been impressive in recent games, including a strong performance against the Penguins in their last meeting, raising questions about who will start in goal for Calgary.

Adam Klapka

The Flames' physical forward was a key factor in their recent victory over the Penguins, showcasing his imposing presence on the ice.

Kevin Bahl

The Flames' defenseman also played a significant role in their previous win against the Penguins, contributing to the team's strong defensive effort.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.