2003–04 Calgary Flames season 2003–04 Calgary Flames season The 2003–04 Calgary Flames season was the 24th National Hockey League season in Calgary, and the 32nd for the franchise in the NHL. The Flames ended a seven-year playoff drought, qualifying for the post-season for the first time since 1996. The Flames defeated three division winners en route to an appearance in the 2004 Stanley Cup Finals. The Flames were defeated in the finals by the Tampa Bay Lightning in seven games. The run to the finals captured the imagination of the city, while the Red Mile celebrations gained international attention for the "Mardi Gras-like" atmosphere
2003–04 Los Angeles Clippers season 2003–04 Los Angeles Clippers season The 2003–04 NBA season was the Clippers' 34th season in the National Basketball Association, and their 20th season in Los Angeles. During the offseason, the Clippers signed free agents Bobby Simmons and former All-Star forward Glen Rice. However, after 18 games, Rice was released. With the Clippers starting from scratch again as they celebrated their 20th season in L.A., they hired Mike Dunleavy, Sr. as their new head coach. Under Dunleavy, the Clippers played slighty around .500 with a 22–25 start as of February 6. However, after co-hosting the 2004 NBA All-Star Game at the