SJS vs CAL

The San Jose Sharks last visited the Saddledome in late January.

It only feels about that long for the Calgary Flames, who have been on an extended road trip since late in the regular season.

“When was it, February some time?” joked Flames defenceman Adrian Aucoin. “Actually, it doesn’t seem that long ago because we’ve been playing so much. It’s amazing when you play and keep going, time just disappears.”

Their first home clash since March 29 will be Sunday’s Game 3 of the best-of-seven opening-round series that is tied at one win apiece.

The Flames were forced out of their home for the final four regular season games because of the Juno Awards.

Because playoffs started on the road, Calgary will have gone more than two weeks between games there.

“It doesn’t seem that long ago,” said head coach Mike Keenan. “We’ve done a lot of work and been pre-occupied with what we’re doing, so you’re not really focused on whether you’re here or on the road or how long it’s been because you don’t have time.”

In fact, they’ve practised only once at the Saddledome since that March 29 date, one session before embarking for San Jose.

They know what’s awaiting, the Sea of Red.

“I’m so excited,” said Kristian Huselius. “Last year, it was amazing, a great feeling to skate out there and be part of it. It makes you hungry to go out and win for your teammates and the city.”

The Sharks struggled in the first 10 minutes of the opening game in San Jose, which head coach Ron Wilson attributed to being too excited about the start of playoffs.

Keenan’s squad will need to deal with the same emotional charge.

“There’s probably many of them accustomed to it and they have some history here,” Keenan said. “It’s a matter of having your players stay at a steady state so their emotions are high, but controlled, and they use that energy in a positive way.”

After playing on back-to-back nights to start the series, the teams had two practice days to prepare.

“I think it’s good for both teams,” Keenan said. “With the exception of two series, every one has to play back-to-back and I would think it’s better to do it early in the series than late. It’s now a best-of-five and both teams are well rested going into this best-of-five.”