text: Below is an context that describes a sql query, paired with an question that provides further information. Write an answer that appropriately completes the request.  # noqa: E501
  ### Context:
  CREATE TABLE table_name_88 (december INTEGER, opponent VARCHAR, game VARCHAR)
  ### Question:
  What is the sum of the dates in december that were against the atlanta flames before game 40?
  ### Answer:
  SELECT SUM(december) FROM table_name_88 WHERE opponent = "atlanta flames" AND game < 40