As one of hockey’s fiercest rivalries on even the most mundane dates, how does the Battle of Alberta unfold when the unmatched spirit of the rivalry is infused with Christmas spirit too?
Since relocating north in 1980, the Flames have sparred against their provincial nemeses within two days of Christmas 16 times. Dec. 27, 2019, marks the 17th Yuletide showdown between the two squads, a hasty reversion to business mere hours after the wrap-up of their family festivities. With their similar records and traces of eggnog doubtlessly lingering in players’ systems, historical precedents could shed some red-and-green light on what could be an unpredictable, cutthroat and not-so-jolly December affair.