Vladar in net for this season’s first Battle of Alberta

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Calgary Flames backup Dan Vladar will be between the pipes for Saturday’s Battle of Alberta. 

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Many were surprised to see Vladar, not Jacob Markstrom, in the usual starter’s net at morning skate at Rogers Place in Edmonton, but coach Darryl Sutter indicated it will be more of a common occurrence throughout the 2022-23 campaign. 

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“Our theme coming in … There’s 26 weeks in our season and we want to make sure that Vladar gets a game a week,” Sutter explained prior to this Hockey Night in Canada clash against the Oilers. “It’s just the way this month works. Quite honest, when Marky was under the weather last game, we thought about playing (Vladar) against Colorado and then Marky here. But he chose Game 1, so this is Game 2.” 

Vladar made 19 starts for the Flames in 2021-22. He collected 13 wins and posted a 2.75 goals-against average and .906 save percentage. 

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Both the Flames and Oilers are 1-0. Markstrom made 22 saves in Thursday’s season-opener at the Saddledome, a 5-3 triumph over the Colorado Avalanche.

“Last year, I felt good about how my game developed. I think I helped the team and it was awesome learning from and working with Marky,” the 25-year-old Vladar told Flames.com during the pre-season. “This year, nothing changes. You’re always trying to get better, to push your partner and help your team win games. 

“Whenever they need me, I’ll be ready. It’s on me to show what I have and every time I get a chance, I’m thankful for the opportunity.” 

wgilbertson@postmedia.com

Twitter.com/WesGilbertson