Flames focus on discipline in Game 4 against Canucks

The Calgary Flames will stand their ground in Game 4 against the VancouverCanucks, even though they expect the blue, green and white to come at them full force in an effort to erase their deficit from the first-round series of the NHL Stanley Cup playoffs.

The NHL has apparently had a word with both teams about toning down any late-in-the-game shenanigans. It doesn't want a repeat of the on-ice scrapping that marked the Flames' 4-2 win in Game 3, and the all-out brawl that overshadowed Vancouver's 4-1 victory in Game 2.

• Canucks, Flames escalating vicious series
• Canucks, Flames playing 'old-time hockey'

While the Flames have heard that message, they plan to push theCanucksas hard as they can to widen their lead in the series.

"I don't think it was any team trying to go out and intentionally start stuff," said veterandefencemanDennisWideman. "I don't necessarily think it was either one of the teams going out and saying we're going to send a message, or whatever, I think we're just playing hard and when you play hard in the playoffs the emotions can take over sometimes."

Left-wing Brandon Bollig predicted more raucous play tonight.

"Bob doesn't want us fighting, but at the same time we're going to gohard on them and they're going to be the same on us and it's going to be a physical game today," said Bollig.

According to the Calgary Flames'website, the team was the most disciplined in the NHL in the regular season, being short-handed just 186 times. But they have taken numerouspenalties in the first three games of the series, something the Flames willbe looking to steer clear of inGame 4.

"The best way to kill a penalty is not be in the penalty box," said Mason Raymond, who plays left wing.

For head coach BobHartley, it's about balance.

"You look at us during the entire year; we've been one of the least penalized teams when it comes to minor penalties," he said. "Looking at fighting majors or suspensions, we've been real good. Obviously it's the playoffs and the emotions run a little higher and the competitive nature of everyone brings the game up. You look at every other series, it's the same thing. Emotions are great in the playoffs, but you need to control them."

CanucksrecallSven Baertschifrom Utica

With all the attention on the Flames' rookies so far in the series, Vancouver appears to betrying to shiftthe spotlight back onits young players.

Today,Canucks' general manager JimBenningannounced his team has recalled forward SvenBaertschifrom the AHL Utica Comets.

The Flames traded Baertschi to Vancouver at the NHL trade deadline in March for a second round pick.

WhileBaertschihas been playing for Utica, he has tallied an impressive 15 points in 15 games. He has also played three games with theCanucksand registered two goals.

It will be a game time decision byCanuckshead coach WillieDesjardinswhetherBaertschihits the ice against his former team tonight.