It wasn't anywhere near the level they were playing at the end of the last season (over a year ago). The Flames didn't even show up for the first period, and gave up some silly opportunities in the second and third. They did have one hell of a rally, to come within one point in the third, but because of earlier screwups it was just too much to come back from.
Still, it was only the first game of the season. It was great to see them on the ice again. Give them a couple of games to gel and they'll rock again.
If anyone wants to swap some seats in the Saddledome for advertising space on my blog, I'm open to offers :-)