Flames' Tkachuk: 'Never thought we'd root for Edmonton' amid playoff hunt

Calgary Flames players and fans alike have found themselves in an uncomfortable position with the season winding down: They have to root for the Edmonton Oilers.

The Flames' playoff hopes were kept alive with their 6-1 win over the Ottawa Senators on Sunday night. In order to qualify for the postseason, Calgary has to win all four of its remaining games, and the Montreal Canadiens have to lose both of their final contests - which come against the Oilers - in regulation.

"We just have to win and pray. That's all we can do tomorrow," Flames winger Matthew Tkachuk said following Sunday's game.

He added: "Never thought we'd root for Edmonton but we need them to win these."

The Flames and Oilers are fierce provincial rivals. Tkachuk was smack dab in the middle of the most recent chapter of the Battle of Alberta last season when he and Zack Kassian went after each other on numerous occasions.

Johnny Gaudreau is hoping Connor McDavid can continue his brilliance against the Habs when the Flames need it most.

"I hope Connor can do his thing," Gaudreau said.

Flames head coach Darryl Sutter downplayed the scenario during an awkward exchange with Sportsnet's Eric Francis.

Darryl Sutter is the best. pic.twitter.com/9I9hzuSwYZ

- World Hockey Report (@worldhockeyrpt) May 10, 2021

The Habs and Oilers will square off Monday and Wednesday in Montreal, while the Flames aren't back in action until Thursday against the Vancouver Canucks.

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