Flames Fall to Oilers Both Games

[hockey.modern]

Thought it would be easier to discuss the two games in one thread rather then separate.

[dissentowner]

meh, pre-season.

[Ashasx]

Was fairly unimpressed tonight, especially the group in Calgary.

Hopefully the team brings some fire when it starts to matter.

[Lanny'sDaMan]

meh, pre-season.

Agreed.

[MisterJoji]

No worries. Wasn't it a few years ago that we went 6-0 in the preseason, but ended up missing the playoffs by a lot. Preseason is for working the kinks out.

[GranteedEV]

Gio/Brodie should never be separated. Brodie completes Gio, not the other way around.

Monahan strong on faceoffs but otherwise pretty ineffective, was really hoping to see more out of him.

Meh, preseason.

[JurassicTunga12]

might as well fold the season. regression incoming!

On another note, I thought 3 on 3 would be played at the end of every game?

[Samiz]

Not sure if it's the reffing or what (I missed the first 2 periods of both games) but the Flames seemed pretty undisciplined compared to what we're used to seeing last year in the regular season

[Artie Fufkin]

Crappy online streams ruined both games.

Technology can go to HELL.

[PaperBagger'14]

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s238/petstarr/Bachelor%20Oz/jonstewart.gif (http://s153.photobucket.com/user/petstarr/media/Bachelor%20Oz/jonstewart.gif.html)

[Dion]

Let the Oiler fans on HF gloat about their 2 wins. There won't be much to cheer about in Edmonton when the season starts.

[combustiblefuel]

Oh no Oilers won a couple of meaningless games like they have done for 7+ years. Let the trolls come in to e=ng with 150% thread. We all know they will ne gone by the end of November.

[Artie Fufkin]

On another note, I thought 3 on 3 would be played at the end of every game?

Yup, I was wondering about this as well.

[Crumpy-Gunt]

Gaudreau is just incredible to watch.

[hockey.modern]

Hartley was switching players every line so kinda expected them to not be as strong. Hope to see some chemistry form sokn

[BACKCHECK!!!]

I watched the B-team playing in Edmonton on an illegal stream (because the Flames and/or NHL are apparently very concerned about preventing merchandise and ticket buying fans from watching their favorite team play pre-season games).

Anyways, the boys in Edmonton played a pretty good game. The Oilers' top players were played to a draw by the Flames' scrubs.

Unfortunately, it seems the reverse was also true in Calgary.

Oh well. Better get used to the idea of the Oilers winning multiple consecutive cups now. It's not a matter of "if", only a matter of "how many".

Bring on the regular season.

[dino7c]

only an Oilers fan would gloat about a pre season win

[Believer]

Ortio, Hiller Jh, Frolik and Gio looked good. Reat of the crew was meh.

[combustiblefuel]

might as well fold the season. regression incoming!

On another note, I thought 3 on 3 would be played at the end of every game?

Yup, I was wondering about this as well.


Both Van games and one vs the Jets

[Racki]

I know it means less than nothing. It still pisses me off. Edmonton has now won three games in a row (youngstars and tonight) against the Flames and I can't stand it. You just know oilers fans will be all over this tomorrow.

[GranteedEV]

Ortio, Hiller Jh, Frolik and Gio looked good. Reat of the crew was meh.

I thought Kulak, Wotherspoon, and Nakladal were all strong. Our defensive depth is starting to get amazing.

[flylock shox]

Johnny looked good. Gio looked good. Hamilton pretty decent too, as was Nakladal I thought. Frolik also had a good game.

Very good to see Gio back doing what he does.

[saillias]

I guess not impressed with this one but not going to be angry either.

The one guy I would definitely cut now is Smith.

It seems like Bollig got 20 min of ice time. Did he leave the ice in the 3rd period? :blink:

[Benched]

only caught the end of the game.

Any thoughts on Gio's shot?

[Fire of the Phoenix]

Fire everybody. Trade everybody.

[buyakasha]

Watched some of the game in Calgary and I thought Kulak looked awesome out there. If any defenseman were to take the 6th or 7th spot I'd give it to him.

Gaudreau is just wow. Every time he has the puck I hear "Can't touch this, dun dun dun dun".

Porier is missing some strength or confidence but still young.

[Erick Estrada]

Oh well. Better get used to the idea of the Oilers winning multiple consecutive cups now. It's not a matter of "if", only a matter of "how many".

LOL wut?

[CalgaryFan1988]

I thought Kylington looked pretty damn good.

[Wedge]

Too good Milos.

[GranteedEV]

Oh, and Mason Raymond is awful.

[robbie111]

Watched the game in Edmonton and Granlund was the best of the bunch of Flames. He needs to use that wicked shot more.

[Leondros]

I really liked Kulak's game. He had some great defensive plays.

[Wastedyouth]

Engelland is so terrible.

[troutman]

According to TSN there was only one game.

EDM had McDavid, and he was perfect in every way!

[Vinny01]

Expected the loss on the road but hoped we would have dominated the group at the Dome. I thought Johnny looked good and Gio was great

[Huntingwhale]

I blame the Flames' streaming team. 100% their fault. If any of you are reading this thread, you guys should hang your heads in shame at such a pitiful display of technological ineptitude.

Stuttering stream. The play by play lag that lasted the ENTIRE game. Freezing. Non stop issues the entire time. Man oh man did that suck.

100% your fault the Flames lost.

[CalgaryFan1988]

According to TSN there was only one game.

EDM had McDavid, and he was perfect in every way!

"McDavid 4, Flames 2" - sportsnet

[hockey.modern]

Those watching EDM game, did McDavid standout?

[dieHARDflameZ]

I know it means less than nothing. It still pisses me off. Edmonton has now won three games in a row (youngstars and tonight) against the Flames and I can't stand it. You just know oilers fans will be all over this tomorrow.

I know where you're coming from. However, in an attempt to make you feel better I would like to remind you that in the last 25 games played between the two teams where the result actually mattered, the Flames are 19-6. Does that help? :)

[Five-hole]

I know it means less than nothing. It still pisses me off. Edmonton has now won three games in a row (youngstars and tonight) against the Flames and I can't stand it. You just know oilers fans will be all over this tomorrow.


Only because they haven't played a meaningful game of hockey in literally 9 years.

[Back2Back]

All i have to say is don't **** with Nurse, the guy is a monster, he messed up the 6'6 goon for being stupid.

[Rejean31]

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r14/oscieweewee/you-know-what-o4oosh.jpg (http://s140.photobucket.com/user/oscieweewee/media/you-know-what-o4oosh.jpg.html)

[hockey.modern]

All i have to say is don't **** with Nurse, the guy is a monster, he messed up the 6'6 goon for being stupid.


It was a fair fight.

[MRCboicgy]

only an Oilers fan would gloat about a pre season win

Don't kid yourself, had we won, the E=NGv2 thread would have grown by 2-3 pgs overnight.

[dieHARDflameZ]

Those watching EDM game, did McDavid standout?

Honest assessment, I watched the first 2.5 periods and other than a few turnovers on fancy pass attempts, he was completely unnoticeable. With that said, I later checked the box score and he had the two assists... One on an empty netter.

[CalgaryFan1988]

Honest assessment, I watched the first 2.5 periods and other than a few turnovers on fancy pass attempts, he was completely unnoticeable. With that said, I later checked the box score and he had the two assists...

I thought the same. Other than the pass to Draisaitl, he was pretty much invisible.

[Street Pharmacist]

All i have to say is don't **** with Nurse, the guy is a monster, he messed up the 6'6 goon for being stupid.
Yeah, that's what happened

[JiriHrdina]

All i have to say is don't **** with Nurse, the guy is a monster, he messed up the 6'6 goon for being stupid.

Derp.

[Dion]

Horrible feeds from both games. Picture quality was subpar and the sound feed not in sync withe video is unacceptable.

[skudr248]

Can we send Raymond back to Juniors? Seriously

[Dion]

All i have to say is don't **** with Nurse, the guy is a monster, he messed up the 6'6 goon for being stupid.

.....and Gadzic was nowhere to be seen when Hall got hit by Hathaway. Some tough guy/enforcer you got there :whistle:

[Wastedyouth]

Those watching EDM game, did McDavid standout?

He was fast, but he didnt look all that special. Not Crosby-like.

[Back2Back]

Yeah, that's what happened

Derp.

Smith goon was leaking pretty crazy.

DdAN0x9c-ZM

He was fast, but he didnt look all that special. Not Crosby-like.

Nothing special yet he had what ? 2 or 3 pts, lol.

[Dion]

Smith goon was leaking pretty crazy.



That supposed goon got 50 points last season and a Memorial Cup ;)

[combustiblefuel]

Can we send Raymond back to Juniors? Seriously

This years Seto type waiver?

[dino7c]

here come the trolls

[btimbit]

Haha. My girlfriend on the fight

"Why is the Oiler pulling his beard?"

[Lanny_McDonald]

Smith goon was leaking pretty crazy.

DdAN0x9c-ZM



Nothing special yet he had what ? 2 or 3 pts, lol.

Looks like Smith got cut buy his visor. Can't wait for the end of October when the Oiler trolls will head back under the high level bridge for another long winter.

[Back2Back]

That supposed goon got 50 points last season and a Memorial Cup ;)

Yea after his 4th season

[DoubleF]

Haha. My girlfriend on the fight

"Why is the Oiler pulling his beard?"

I was confused by the part where it looks like Smith is sticking his fingers in Nurse's mouth.

EDIT: at 0:33

[Dion]

Smith goon was leaking pretty crazy.

DdAN0x9c-ZM



Nothing special yet he had what ? 2 or 3 pts, lol.

It was a split squad game. Not sure what you're getting all excited about.

[schteve_d]

Haha. My girlfriend on the fight

"Why is the Oiler pulling his beard?"


That was odd. I'm not sure what he was doing, or what he was trying to do, there.

[dieHARDflameZ]

It looked like Nurse scratched him to me...

[Back2Back]

Any reason why Smith didn't take his helmet off, that's a d*** move if you ask me

[Huntingwhale]

Credit to Nurse. The kid is a beast and I'd take him on the Flames in a heartbeat. Even at 6'4 he looked tiny compared to Smith, yet more then held his own. Sucks to say, but the oilers have a real player in that kid.

[combustiblefuel]

Smith goon was leaking pretty crazy.

DdAN0x9c-ZM



Nothing special yet he had what ? 2 or 3 pts, lol.

I love you keep saying he is a goon yet wss one of the top point getters on his team in the playoffs last year and beat your precious Mcsavior.

[JiriHrdina]

Any reason why Smith didn't take his helmet off, that's a d*** move if you ask me

Because it's against the rules?
Derp

[calgaryblood]

Any reason why Smith didn't take his helmet off, that's a d*** move if you ask me

I'm no expert but I think it's because getting punched in the head hurts less when your brain is protected.

[combustiblefuel]

Any reason why Smith didn't take his helmet off, that's a d*** move if you ask me

Its an extra 2 min penalty now.

[buyakasha]

Can we get back to pros/cons we saw in whichever player please

[JohnnyT]

Can we just ban the troll and move on, he's not going to provide any discussion points.

What did everyone think of the new guys and prospects not named Hamilton, Frolik and Bennett? I thought Wotherspoon had a good game, same with Kulak. How the defensive breaks down is going to be interesting over the next couple of weeks

[flylock shox]

Can we get back to pros/cons we saw in whichever player please

Kulak looked good. Very smooth, thoughtful.

With all the depth on the backend, the Flames should be looking at a nice package to get a bowling ball prospect winger from someplace. There's still a lack of brute chaotic strength up front.

[dino7c]

no kidding, don't feed the troll...registered in 2012 and has barley posted here until now for some unknown reason

[GranteedEV]

Credit to Nurse. The kid is a beast and I'd take him on the Flames in a heartbeat. Even at 6'4 he looked tiny compared to Smith, yet more then held his own. Sucks to say, but the oilers have a real player in that kid.

Huh? What hockey plays did he make that made you think "they have a real player"?

Looks like a glorified face-puncher to me.

[Fighting Banana Slug]

Smith did well in the fight, but was the worst flame out there.

To be honest, I didn't think Gio was particularly good. Rusty, to be expected. I thought Nakladal looked good, as did Kulak.

Frolik is a guy that will help this team. Very composed (except on penalty shots, apparently).

[Back2Back]

Its an extra 2 min penalty now.
But Nurse already had his Helmet off

Can we just ban the troll and move on, he's not going to provide any discussion points.

What did everyone think of the new guys and prospects not named Hamilton, Frolik and Bennett? I thought Wotherspoon had a good game, same with Kulak. How the defensive breaks down is going to be interesting over the next couple of weeks

Sorry but i'm not a troll.


I hate to say it but that Gaudreau kid can play, he's going to be a good one for the flames.

[Enoch Root]

really impressed with Frolik

Ferland also had a great game

Bennett's compete level is awesome

Giordano for Prime Minister

Thought Wotherspoon and Nakladal were both good

Gaudreau is ridiculous

[flylock shox]

Huh? What hockey plays did he make that made you think "they have a real player"?

Looks like a glorified face-puncher to me.

Don't kid yourself. I'd love to have this guy on the Flames. Plays a smart game, very smooth skater, and clearly plenty tough.

If I was an Oilers fan I'd be almost as excited about Nurse as McDavid, particularly given the latter's tepid start.

[buyakasha]

How'd the kids do in EDM? Was watching the home game.

[JiriHrdina]

But Nurse already had his Helmet off



So that means Smith should take an extra 2 minute penalty? How on derp does that make any sense?

[FlamesFan?101]

We should've won the game in CGY. The Oilers' top line stepped up when it needed to, give them credit. Nurse is a beast, gonna hate playing him in the future.

Was expecting a loss in EDM. Oilers just had too much talent for us to keep up with.

[dino7c]

But Nurse already had his Helmet off



Sorry but i'm not a troll.


I hate to say it but that Gaudreau kid can play, he's going to be a good one for the flames.

because it was knocked off, he certainly didn't take it off...which is a penalty. If you are not a troll and actually watched the game McDavid didn't do a who lot against lackluster competition. PP assist and EN assist...Flames didn't exactly have the best roster up there and they did a good job of containing him

[combustiblefuel]

But Nurse already had his Helmet off



Sorry but i'm not a troll.


I hate to say it but that Gaudreau kid can play, he's going to be a good one for the flames.
Last time I'll bite .

If you remove your helmet YOURSELF its 2mins extra. Hunter was nice enough to remove it for Nurse.

[dino7c]

We should've won the game in CGY. The Oilers' top line stepped up when it needed to, give them credit. Nurse is a beast, gonna hate playing him in the future.

Was expecting a loss in EDM. Oilers just had too much talent for us to keep up with.

yet the flames were the better team for much of the game

[calgaryblood]

Huh? What hockey plays did he make that made you think "they have a real player"?

Looks like a glorified face-puncher to me.

Agreed. Looks to be a low IQ defender who will be a 4-5 guy. On the Oilers he'll probably be their top defender, which is a good thing. On the Flames he'd be the 6th guy.

[MissTeeks]

I think derp is my new favorite word. Thanks Jiri!

[AC]

Here are the 2 Flames goals in Edmonton:
Buzz Kylington
835540&catid=11
http://video.flames.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=835540&catid=11

Granlund SHG
835539&catid=11
http://video.flames.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=835539&catid=11

[jar_e]

I thought Hamilton looked pretty damn rusty to be honest. A lot of bobbles and bad first passes.

[MissTeeks]

@DarrenWHaynes: Hartley on Giordano blocking shots in September: "I'd like to tell him not to do it but it's part of our DNA. That's why he's our captain."

[GranteedEV]

oh, one more thing. I thought Drew Shore had a great game. He's so smart defensively, kind of feels like a 6'3" Backlund or something in that end.

[hockey.modern]

Here are the 2 Flames goals in Edmonton:

Buzz Kylington

835540&catid=11

http://video.flames.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=835540&catid=11

Wow that was he worst enthusiasm when he said "score" I've ever heard.

[hockey.modern]

I thought Hamilton looked pretty damn rusty to be honest. A lot of bobbles and bad first passes.


First game with new teammates, he'll learn to build chemistry

[combustiblefuel]

I also eant to make it clear that Nurse is a bigger goon then Smith. Look at his OHL fight card .

The last guy Nurse fought was Rasmus Andersson at the youngstars tourney. Ya Rasmus andersson who has never fought befor and younger. Smith tried to fight him then and he refused. The Fight tonight Smith left him no choice but to oblige tonight. If Nurse would have step up then this wouldn't of happened tonight.


Nurse reminds me of a younger version of Andrew Ference and Kevin Bieska. Pick your spot unless a bigger man catches you and you cant run away with your tail between your legs.

[Oling_Roachinen]

I was confused by the part where it looks like Smith is sticking his fingers in Nurse's mouth.

EDIT: at 0:33

Nurse also looks like he chomps down, albeit missing the fingers, right after.

[calumniate]

Preseason refs. Cut them!

[Walter Reed]

Those watching EDM game, did McDavid standout?

Not to me, he looked somewhat uncomfortable. I thought Kylington impressed, very smooth skater, didn't get rattled.

[Enoch Root]

I know Oiler fans are high on LaLeggia (or whatever his name is) and this was the first time I have ever seen him play live.

He is literally - and I mean literally - the same size as Gaudreau, except maybe a bit skinnier.

Unless he is more talented than Bobby Orr (which he most definitely is not), he will never, ever be an NHL player. Not saying he won't dress for the Oilers at some point because, Oilers, but there is no way in hell a kid that small will ever be an NHL defenseman.

I was astounded

[Walter Reed]

only an Oilers fan would gloat about a pre season win

I hadn't noticed any gloating ?

[dino7c]

I hadn't noticed any gloating ?

look a little harder

[2Stonedbirds]

I also eant to make it clear that Nurse is a bigger goon then Smith. Look at his OHL fight card .

The last guy Nurse fought was Rasmus Andersson at the youngstars tourney. Ya Rasmus andersson who has never fought befor and 4 years younger. Smith tried to fight him then and he refused. The Fight tonight Smith left him no choice but to oblige tonight. If Nurse would have step up then this wouldn't of happened tonight.


Nurse reminds me of a younger version of Andrew Ference and Kevin Bieska. Pick your spot unless a bigger man catches you and you cant run away with your tail between your legs.

"Now let that be a lesson to you Darnell. Next time Smith or someone of his ilk wants retribution, just kick his ass right away so you don't have to do it a week later."

:bag:

[Firebot]

Those watching EDM game, did McDavid standout?

He had a spurt or two which he sped up fast, but was nullified very quickly including a play from Russell that took him out of the play. If it wasn't the fact that he is supposed to be the next one, you would have not noticed him much of the game. He did make a small nifty pass to Draisaitl for the tying power play goal, but Draisaitl had no business being wide open alone in front of the net. Oilers fans were rather annoyed that Eichel had scored first which would be the start of a Hall / Seguin type discussion (of course before the magic assist). It will take some time for McDavid to adjust, but he's the type of player that is smart and can do so.


How'd the kids do in EDM? Was watching the home game.

Kylington and Anderssen (and Wilson for that matter) looked very strong and seemed like veterans out there. They were not out of place at all, and they played well on offence too. I think Kylington and Anderssen will be seen as steals of the draft 3-4 years down the road. Both seem to have qualities of top 4 defencemen. Granlund was great, Mangiapane was not very noticeable.

Flames were clearly having an impact on Edmonton's game, but those undiciplined penalties cost them. You don't give a team 7 power play chances and expect to not get burned. Wideman gave a big crosscheck in the back of Yakupov to send a message, but those plays cost the game (preseason).

[DoubleF]

I thought Hamilton looked pretty damn rusty to be honest. A lot of bobbles and bad first passes.

I felt like a few of his passes were a bit over powered too. It's ok, he's still adjusting to the system.

Nurse also looks like he chomps down, albeit missing the fingers, right after.

Yeah, that entire scrap was bizarre. I read a comment that says the beard rub thing might have been Nurse trying to pull the strap on the helmet.

[GranteedEV]

Don't kid yourself. I'd love to have this guy on the Flames. Plays a smart game, very smooth skater, and clearly plenty tough

I didn't see a smart game. He has the tools with his size and skating, but that's it. The "smart game" part seems to be perpetuated fiction because he's a high draft pick. We saw our own version of that kind of myth between 06 and 09.

I did however, see a smart game from Griffin Reinhart. But he doesn't seem to have a very high ceiling.

[getbak]

I don't understand why Klinkhammer didn't get booted for being the third man in on the fight.

[Walter Reed]

How did Reinhart & Klefbom look?

[Oil Stain]

I also eant to make it clear that Nurse is a bigger goon then Smith. Look at his OHL fight card .

The last guy Nurse fought was Rasmus Andersson at the youngstars tourney. Ya Rasmus andersson who has never fought befor and 4 years younger. Smith tried to fight him then and he refused. The Fight tonight Smith left him no choice but to oblige tonight. If Nurse would have step up then this wouldn't of happened tonight.


Nurse reminds me of a younger version of Andrew Ference and Kevin Bieska. Pick your spot unless a bigger man catches you and you cant run away with your tail between your legs.

The problem is that you are basing your entire opinion of Nurse on one fight in a rookie tournament.

http://dropyourgloves.com/Fights/FightCard.aspx?Player=84046

Nurse had only two fights last year in the OHL.

One against 6'6" 225lb Mccarron, and another against 6'4" 220 Callaghan.

The year before he fought Auger who is 6'7" and 231 lbs.

Anderson is the smallest guy that Nurse has ever fought.

[AC]

I have no problem admitting I hate that the Oilers drafted Nurse, at the time he seemed exactly what they needed and he's looked good in the few limited seeings I've had of him.

[CalgaryFan1988]

The problem is that you are basing your entire opinion of Nurse on one fight in a rookie tournament.

http://dropyourgloves.com/Fights/FightCard.aspx?Player=84046

Nurse had only two fights last year in the OHL.

One against 6'6" 225lb Mccarron, and another against 6'4" 220 Callaghan.

The year before he fought Auger who is 6'7" and 231 lbs.

Anderson is the smallest guy that Nurse has ever fought.


Wait, your link must be inaccurate. It says tonight's fight was a draw, but according to numerous Oiler fans in this thread Nurse "kicked his ass".

[Oil Stain]

Wait, your link must be inaccurate. It says tonight's fight was a draw, but according to numerous Oiler fans in this thread Nurse "kicked his ass".

I thought it was pretty even.

[dino7c]

I have no problem admitting I hate that the Oilers drafted Nurse, at the time he seemed exactly what they needed and he's looked good in the few limited seeings I've had of him.

I think its the whole idea that "Nurse destroyed Smith" is what is rubbing people the wrong way...it was an even fight and neither guy even went down. Smith got cut (possibly by his own visor) and skated away without issue

[CalgaryFan1988]

I thought it was pretty even.

Me too and even though I quoted you, what I said wasn't really directed at you. You have been very level headed tonight.

[getbak]

How did Ramo look in Edmonton? I thought Hiller and Ortio both looked solid in the game here. Nice head's up play and well-deserved assist by Hiller on the goal.

[CalgaryFan1988]

How did Ramo look in Edmonton? I thought Hiller and Ortio both looked solid in the game here. Nice head's up play and well-deserved assist by Hiller on the goal.

Weak goal, but after that he really settled in and looked very good. He played 2 complete periods and McDonald started the 3rd iirc

[Walter Reed]

Ramo looked good as did McDonald IMO.

[LanceUppercut]

Ramo looked good as did McDonald IMO.

First goal was a bit of a soft one though. I was hoping those were worked out of his system over the summer.

[The Yen Man]

To me, Nurse looks about the same as Phaneuf. Big, mean, but makes some boneheaded plays.

[Walter Reed]

It was a first game, so some rust is to be expected one would think. After both teams first goals the tenders played well.

[robbie111]

How did Ramo look in Edmonton? I thought Hiller and Ortio both looked solid in the game here. Nice head's up play and well-deserved assist by Hiller on the goal.

Let in 1 softy that he might have been a bit screened on but played really well other than that.

From the game, the Flames got to work a lot on PK (not going to blame the refs...much) and Granlund was the best Flame tonight and actually outplayed Backlund tonight.

I still think Granlund goes down to the AHL due to being able to clear waivers, but he is light years better than Raymond or Bollig and I wouldn't mind seeing him on the wing for a game or two during preseason.

[Street Pharmacist]

I have no problem admitting I hate that the Oilers drafted Nurse, at the time he seemed exactly what they needed and he's looked good in the few limited seeings I've had of him.
Totally agree

[kn]

I still think Granlund goes down to the AHL due to being able to clear waivers, but he is light years better than Raymond or Bollig.

I'd rather move Granlund to wing instead of playing Raymond. Raymond is such a soft player who is easy to knock off the puck. Maybe someone in camp can impress enough to make Mason expendable.

[corporatejay]

Kleptomaniac looked good. One of the Oilers' best players.

I thought Reinhardt was ok. He got burned a couple of times and his foot speed needs work.

Other than Frolik I wasn't overly impressed with any flames players and Hamilton made a couple of bad mistakes. No big deal, it's preseason but it was a bit underwhelming.

[hockey.modern]

Lets look on the bright side everyone, we get to watch the rest of the Flames games this season without any crashes or lag.

[#-3]

Win em while they count Edmonton, Win em while they count.

[dino7c]

TSN highlights of the games

McDavid PP assist
McDavid EN assist
McDavid 1st star (homer pick)

Nothing about any other player on either team

[N-E-B]

Watched bits and pieces of both games. Didn't see much urgency from the veterans, but it's preseason, I'd rather they not go get hurt trying to win meaningless games.

Ferland hit on Klinkhammer was awesome.

Kylington is good. I like him a lot.

McDavid wasn't all that noticeable, had a couple of assists. Didn't look bad at all but definitely didn't look "generational". Still was named first star of the game... The propaganda has begun.

We'll beat 'em when it matters.

[FiveSeven]

All i have to say is don't **** with Nurse, the guy is a monster, he messed up the 6'6 goon for being stupid.

Honestly after watching the fight again I'd say it was even or smith won. It seems like he landed more good shots, partially because nurse had no helmet. Smiths nose got cut with the visor and people see a little blood and think it's a win.

[ComixZone]

*notices Oiler fan running around a PGT*

Yep, must be September. Nice to see you, I look forward to hearing from you again next pre-season.

[Textcritic]

...I hate to say it but that Gaudreau kid can play, he's going to be a good one for the flames.
He already is, troll.

[hockey.modern]

He already is, derp.


Fyp

[Fire]

Why can't Raymond stay on his skates? I hope the Flames have the guts to send him down to Stockton if he deserves it.

What is the buy-out cap hit if they buy him out next off-season?

[Caged Great]

None of the vets played with much urgency. No need to push too hard until later in the camp. Not concerned in the slightest.

[Caged Great]

Why can't Raymond stay on his skates? I hope the Flames have the guts to send him down to Stockton if he deserves it.

What is the buy-out cap hit if they buy him out next off-season?

800+ K next year and 1.2 mil the year after.

[CaptainCrunch]

But Nurse already had his Helmet off



Sorry but i'm not a troll.


I hate to say it but that Gaudreau kid can play, he's going to be a good one for the flames.

You clearly don't know what you're talking about, and you're trying to make a point from a position of a serious lack of knowledge.

So just stop.

Nurse's physical skills are impressive, he does a lot of the physical things well. But he reminds me of Phaneuf in terms of his decision making and attention to detail.

That might hold him back, because its something that's pretty tough to teach.

[Street Pharmacist]

TSN highlights of the games

McDavid PP assist
McDavid EN assist
McDavid 1st star (homer pick)

Nothing about any other player on either team
It's preseason. Nobody outside Alberta cares about any one else

[The Fonz]

What are the odds that anyone has the Ferland hit on Klinkhammer? I never got to see it

[GreenLantern2814]

That Kyllington goal is insane... Mark Fayne is a good nhl defenseman, and Kyllington just about made him fall over. That's some Johnny level edge work at play, and he's doing it at warp 8.

[GreenLantern2814]

To me, Nurse looks about the same as Phaneuf. Big, mean, but makes some boneheaded plays.

If Nurse becomes as good as Phaneuf, that is not good for us.

[ScorchyScorch]

May I just say Kylington looks effing awesome? Should've been more talked about than McDavid in that Edmonton game, well if these media nutcases put aside the hype for a second (ffs, he was invisible much of the game and one assist was on an empty net..dear lord). The way Oliver skates and handles the puck is so smooth and fun to watch.

Didn't realize how good our second rounders this past draft actually were (Andersson too). The group up there held their own just fine, we only coughed up the lead when McDonald drew in, who I'm gonna be honest I'm not impressed with (2 goals on 7 shots tonight). But yeah, nbd..

Looks like Hiller and Ramo could both steal us victories early in the season again while the team gets their legs under them. They're both in pretty fine form already. Didn't get to see much of Ortio, but heard he was alright too.

You just know the boys will shut down McHype and friends when it actually counts.

[AC]

Here are the full highlight packages available:

835548&catid=11
http://video.flames.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=835548&catid=11
835545&catid=11
http://video.flames.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=835545&catid=11

I loved Ferland crushing Eberle at 2:00 off in the corner.

[pseudoreality]

Smith goon was leaking pretty crazy.

DdAN0x9c-ZM



Nothing special yet he had what ? 2 or 3 pts, lol.
Did Smith connect with even one punch? That looked like WWE. Every punch Smith thru missed and Nurse's hit the visor.

[GoJetsGo]

Some random points:


- Really odd seeing several deflated posters on the first couple pages of this thread. The ONLY point of these games is player evaluation. The score, or who we played has absolutely zero significance/relevance

- That point leads into the typicalness of Oiler fans (a few on this forum and others) taking any kind of sense of accomplishment from pre-season games. They do the same thing every year and September / October are their only months, so let them enjoy themselves. We all know (and so do they) that they'll be gone in about sixty days


- Thought Gaudreau and Gio looked sensational. A lot of rust all the way around but those two stuck out

- Granlund and Augistino looked really good and hungry in the game in Edmonton

- Really liked Hamilton's skating and size and think he's going to make our d-core that much more lethal. While he was fighting the puck in spots I really liked his confidence at jumping into the play. I think he's going to run with that

- Frolik lived up to being a guy who looked great in all situations

- Even though Ferland said in a recent interview he realized he can't try and kill everyone all the time like he did in the playoffs... it still looked like he was trying to kill everyone all the time (awesome!)

- Kylington and Anderson looked amazing for first year players. The chance that they could develop into mainstays just makes our defensive pool look that much better

- As has been touched on, the Flames A/V staff should be embarrassed. There's no excuse for a pro sports team to be that inept in 2015 as far as streaming technologies go. I plan on sending them a FAX tomorrow, outlining how outdated their effort was last night. In case it doesn't come through, I'll point out that's why I'm faxing. Because with how poor their technology was last night, I'm unsure if they have yet upgraded their systems to email / Windows 2000. I encourage anyone else reading this with a fax machine available to them to do the same tomorrow. Maybe it will strike a cord.

[GoJetsGo]

Also: GIO

PTbgctXBacY

That is all.

[IgnitedSoul]

Are there any replays of Hathaway's hit on Hall?

[dammage79]

Anders Nilsson looks like he's going to be the guy who takes the #2 spot in the Oilers net. Looked really really strong in his share or the game. Had the kind of efficient lateral movement and poise that all really good goalies possess.

Nurse is going to be good for them. Which sucks. But whatever, they cant suck forever can they?

Ortio looked strong, got hung out to dry on that 2 on 1 but his position and coverage were spot on IMO. Hiller looked strong even though that one goal came on the post he covers weakest. Ramo lett a bad one in but calmed down and didn't flop as much as I was expecting to see so early in the preseason.

Kylinton, Andersson, Wilson stood out in a very good way for the road squad tonight. Super impressed with all three. Nakladal was defensively noticeable tonight for the home team.

Poirier was not good. Needs to pick it up.

Gio, Monahan, Gaudreau, Brodie, Wideman, Russell and Hudler just do not look like they skipped a beat. They are the bar that is set. Bennett was gritty tonight, skill wasn't prominent so much tonight, not a critique just an observation.

[Vulcan]

In his first pre-season game, Kylington stood out on the Flames blueline. The Swede rung a hard shot off the post early on, netted Calgary's first goal of the night, and looked poised in his own zone.
"I felt pretty good. I was a bit nervous at the beginning but when the game started I was pretty calm and it was fun to play out there," Kylington said of his first taste of NHL action. "I think I played easy in our own end, I didn’t play that fancy I just played easy. I kept the pucks out and blocked some shots. I think I did a decent defensive job and I’m pretty proud of that.
"I think I did pretty good. Hopefully it gets better and better."
"I think he was real good," Cloutier said of Kylington. "He moved the puck well. When he plays a simple game he is very effective. When you’re young that’s what you have to do – make the easy play."I think he'll be sticking around a while longer.

http://flames.nhl.com/gamecenter/en/recap?id=2015010007

oh yeah, nice to see Granlund showing off his quick release again. For some reason he never seemed able to get it off during the regular season.

[saillias]

I'd rather move Granlund to wing instead of playing Raymond. Raymond is such a soft player who is easy to knock off the puck. Maybe someone in camp can impress enough to make Mason expendable.

Something that disappointed me about Raymond. In the training camp scrum on FlamesTV someone asks him if he's done anything different this off-season he says "no." The guy has become a 13th forward here and he didn't see fit to maybe work on something in the off-season, put on some mass, work on a specific skill.

[Strange Brew]

Why can't Raymond stay on his skates? I hope the Flames have the guts to send him down to Stockton if he deserves it.

What is the buy-out cap hit if they buy him out next off-season?

Unfortunately that's what I see happening for Raymond. Flames can't give him away at his salary and with next years salary cap problems, you can't afford to have $3.1 million taking up cap room for an AHL quality player.

Disappointed to hear Poirier had an invisible game. Happy to see Granlund was solid.

[Poe969]

Good to see the oilers getting the w's out of the way now. I mean can you imagine how mad MacT and Lowe would be for getting -4 Matthews points in one night!

[badger89]

Also: GIO

PTbgctXBacY

That is all.
Hamilton with a poor attempt to keep the puck in their zone on that play creating the 3 on 1. You can see the talent, but he was really fighting the puck last night.

[btimbit]

Gio is unreal. The guy doesn't have a 'half assed' setting. If he's there, he's giving 110% all the time

[Looch City]

Everyone knows that preseason record is directly related to playoff performance. The corsi analytics are uncanny.

[Lanny'sDaMan]

I'd rather move Granlund to wing instead of playing Raymond. Raymond is such a soft player who is easy to knock off the puck. Maybe someone in camp can impress enough to make Mason expendable.

This guy makes Raymond expendable:

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6f/Pylon_01_KMJ.jpg/220px-Pylon_01_KMJ.jpg

No but seriously, he was the worst player on the ice in both games. And yes I'm including ALL the Oilers players too. Raymond is hot garbage and needs to be NOT on the starting roster.

[Coach]

Only saw the Calgary game and would echo most sentiments on Gio and Gaudreau. Frolik looked good, he's got good wheels. I noticed Shore with some great speed as well, hopefully he can overtake Raymond. Hudler looks faster than last year. Thought Nakladal was one of the best defensemen, very poised.

[schteve_d]

Raymond is hot garbage and needs to be NOT on the starting roster.

Every time I open the Fire on Ice forum these days my eyes automatically scan the first page for a Raymond trade.

[The Hendog]

Some random points:

- As has been touched on, the Flames A/V staff should be embarrassed. There's no excuse for a pro sports team to be that inept in 2015 as far as streaming technologies go. I plan on sending them a FAX tomorrow, outlining how outdated their effort was last night. In case it doesn't come through, I'll point out that's why I'm faxing. Because with how poor their technology was last night, I'm unsure if they have yet upgraded their systems to email / Windows 2000. I encourage anyone else reading this with a fax machine available to them to do the same tomorrow. Maybe it will strike a cord.

I was thinking homing pigeons might be more appropriate

http://www.freewebs.com/kjcii/homingpigeonsbycolor.htm

The homing pigeon world seems fixated on colour apparently

[ComixZone]

Some random points:
- Really odd seeing several deflated posters on the first couple pages of this thread. The ONLY point of these games is player evaluation. The score, or who we played has absolutely zero significance/relevance

Agreed, good grief.

I hope we don't have a seasons worth of unrealistic expectations already set around here.

We're still building a team, and a culture. Patience is required. All I expect from this team is that the same work ethic from last season gets carried forward into this season. As long as they work hard, the success will come.

[calgaryblood]

TSN literally never talked about the game and only showed McDavid highlights. Not a single other highlight was shown it was only about McDavid. WTF.

[Bourque's Twin]

My observations on new(ish) players from the home game:

Hamilton - you can tell why he's so hyped up. Amazing skating for a guy of his size. HE was rusty, but it's game #1 on his new team... He is going be a good defeseman right away, but in 1 - 3 years he is going to be incredible.

Shore - I put Shore as one of my "busts" for this year, but he was the hardest skating player on the Flames last night. He won a lot of battles and created some opportunities. It's good to see how hungry he is to make the team.

Nakladal - I was impressed considering it's his first NHL-type game. He is no more than a #5/6, but he may become an effective one. I'm excited to see how his game develops each game.

Poirier - I thought he was the worst guy out there. I hate to say it but I've never been impressed by any of his games at the NHL level. He plays smaller than he is, and he seems so anxious out there.

Smith - It's nice to see him drop the mitts, but he's not a great fighter, and he needs a ton of work on his hands and skating. He's certainly a project, but he might develop in a few years.

Ferland - He looks like an NHL vet out there, not a rookie. I would be completely shocked if he wasn't an everyday player this season.

Frolik - He was very effective with his body positioning in the defensive zone, and his puck carrying ability in the offensive zone. He adds a lot of depth to this team up front.

[Coach]

TSN literally never talked about the game and only showed McDavid highlights. Not a single other highlight was shown it was only about McDavid. WTF.

Get used to it. Let it feed your hate.

[I_H8_Crawford]

Get used to it. Let it feed your hate.
On the plus side, if he has a slump, or is slow getting started (i.e. no points in 10 games) we get to enjoy endless analysis on "What's wrong with McDavid???"

:D

[calgaryblood]

Get used to it. Let it feed your hate.

Hate the hype, but I don't hate McDavid...yet.

[Cali Panthers Fan]

Thanks to everyone for the analysis and updates last night and this morning. Apparently Florida is outside of the Flames region. ;)

Sounds like Ferland is making the most of his opportunity to make this team. Others like Shore, Granlund, Nakladal, Wilson, Kylington, and Anderson looked solid, but do we think they will actually take jobs from anyone this year?

On defense, there really only seems to be an opening at #6/7 unless Smid makes a miraculous comeback. Engelland is a limited player, but the Flames management seems to like him and the role he plays, so I don't see him going anywhere right away. The top 5 look really good already, and are only going to get sharper as time goes on, so I imagine most of those other guys will start in the AHL or junior.

Forward is more interesting. Shore or Arnold might actually take Stajan's job away. Stajan is a solid all-around player, but he doesn't do anything at a particularly high level, making him expendable if Shore or Arnold can do the same at less salary. Experience is the only thing saving his job at the moment. Raymond obviously needs to be jettisoned, but who's gonna take him? He might get buried to start the year or bought out. Does anyone else see any of the veteran forwards as vulnerable?

[tvp2003]

Hate the hype, but I don't hate McDavid...yet.

Is it okay if I already hate Nurse?

[Azhouse]

Yes.

[GranteedEV]

Sounds like Ferland is making the most of his opportunity to make this team. Others like Shore, Granlund, Nakladal, Wilson, Kylington, and Anderson looked solid, but do we think they will actually take jobs from anyone this year?

It's too small a sample size, but I truly hope we open the season with:

Johnny
Monny
Frolik
Hudler
Bennett
Colborne
Bouma
Backlund
Jones
Ferland
Stajan
Jooris
Byron
Shore

Giordano
Brodie
Hamilton
Russell
Wilson
Wideman
Nakladal

Ortio
Ramo/Hiller (flip a coin)

TBQH Wotherspoon and Kulak are very deserving of spots themselves. But more time in the minors never hurt no one.

Forward is more interesting. Shore or Arnold might actually take Stajan's job away. Stajan is a solid all-around player, but he doesn't do anything at a particularly high level, making him expendable if Shore or Arnold can do the same at less salary. Experience is the only thing saving his job at the moment.

Stajan still has value to the team as the younger centres (Bennett/Monahan) continue to learn the position. He's worth keeping around for another year, but I would move him after this season.

[Demetric]

On the plus side, if he has a slump, or is slow getting started (i.e. no points in 10 games) we get to enjoy endless analysis on "What's wrong with McDavid???"

:D

Answer = Oilers

[dustygoon]

If Granlund can win some face-offs, he is going to make it tough on coaches to send him down. He looks like he should be in the NHL....whether its the flames or not.

[Fighting Banana Slug]

Shore will be an interesting case. I thought he showed good jump, but playing with Bollig and Smith was like being short handed the whole game. Curious if he some offence, playing with more skilled players.

[Huntingwhale]

Huh? What hockey plays did he make that made you think "they have a real player"?

Looks like a glorified face-puncher to me.

Watching him in Jr and the international tournaments. He showed his toughness vs Smith. No easy task.

Look I love to rag on the oilers as much as the next guy, but it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that rival or not, Nurse will be a damn good player down the road.

[dissentowner]

Thanks to everyone for the analysis and updates last night and this morning. Apparently Florida is outside of the Flames region. ;)

Sounds like Ferland is making the most of his opportunity to make this team. Others like Shore, Granlund, Nakladal, Wilson, Kylington, and Anderson looked solid, but do we think they will actually take jobs from anyone this year?

I think Nakladal will beat out Engelland for the #6 spot. He is just a much better D man.

[AcGold]

Nurse is pretty good now, not NHL ready, but he's obviously one of their best d prospects. Big, tough, skilled. He'll be an impact player soon.

[Ashasx]

I'd say Nurse is easily a top 6 defenceman in that organization and will most certainly start the season in the NHL.

Unless the contracts of Ference and Nikitin force him down, but I doubt it.

[Street Pharmacist]

I doubt Nurse starts the season up. He'll finish it though once they get rid of Nikitin. Kid's a really good prospect.

As for Draisaitl, he'll do far, far better as a winger. His strengths are along the boards and at the half wall, and he's absolutely brutal at carrying the puck. Going to wrong minimizes his weakness and plays to his strengths.

[2Stonedbirds]

I think Nurse will have an uphill battle due to vet contracts. Will probably start the season in the minors and be first call up, or after some seasoning in the ahl they may try and move a dman to make room.

[Coach]

It's amazing to me that they would need to make room on that awful blueline due to contracts. You would think there were spots for the taking, but I guess not.

[Poe969]

lol, it's the oilers...not only will he start the season in the NHL, he'll be on the top pairing and end up with a letter on his jersey. He's the best defensive prospect they've had since...ever. They're going to hype up Nurse and McDavid as the future of the oilers and the NHL.

[cannon7]

Wotherspoon looks ready to fill a #6/7 spot. Only problem is there's a logjam in front of him. Kulak looked great also, expect to see him called up at some point. Flames have some decisions to make regarding their vets.

Wanted to see more from Klimchuk, Agostino, Poirier, etc. Hope we get to see another game.

[Calgary4LIfe]

Thanks to everyone for the analysis and updates last night and this morning. Apparently Florida is outside of the Flames region. ;)

Sounds like Ferland is making the most of his opportunity to make this team. Others like Shore, Granlund, Nakladal, Wilson, Kylington, and Anderson looked solid, but do we think they will actually take jobs from anyone this year?

On defense, there really only seems to be an opening at #6/7 unless Smid makes a miraculous comeback. Engelland is a limited player, but the Flames management seems to like him and the role he plays, so I don't see him going anywhere right away. The top 5 look really good already, and are only going to get sharper as time goes on, so I imagine most of those other guys will start in the AHL or junior.

Forward is more interesting. Shore or Arnold might actually take Stajan's job away. Stajan is a solid all-around player, but he doesn't do anything at a particularly high level, making him expendable if Shore or Arnold can do the same at less salary. Experience is the only thing saving his job at the moment. Raymond obviously needs to be jettisoned, but who's gonna take him? He might get buried to start the year or bought out. Does anyone else see any of the veteran forwards as vulnerable?

I would argue that Stajan may be a bit of a special case. I don't think he will get replaced if someone cheaper provides an equal performance. I think whomever replaces him will have to provide much more on the ice than Stajan does. I think Stajan is now what Ference was back in the day for the Flames - that guy in the dressing room that was sort of the 'glue' or the 'heart' of the team. That team was never the same after that trade (though I acknowledge that Ference's discount in exchange for his 'handshake no-trade clause' may have had something to do with it).

If that really is the case, then I can assume the Flames would replace Stajan only if someone (looking at Arnold here - not as high on Shore as others are, but Arnold I think is the heir-apparent) provides a substantial increase on the ice, not just an 'equal performance but for much less money'. I could be wrong and may be overvaluing what Stajan means to the team, however. Just what I think anyways.

[Ashasx]

Stajan also somehow manages to keep his head above water playing with possession blackholes like Bollig.

He's a good player. If we dump him solely on the purposes of cap space, it hurts the team.

[Coach]

Did Arnold get hurt? Why wasn't he in one of the games?

[AcGold]

If we trade Stajan our buddy Raymond better be on the same plane outta here.

[DiracSpike]

Was at the calgary game last night, personally I'm giving props to Nurse. Smith pretty much jumped him (I'm surprised he didn't get an instigator) and he held his own against a bigger guy. If we're going to criticize the guy for caving in Anderson's face you kind of have to respect him for fighting Smith.

Anyways I thought Frolik and Nakladal looked really good. Drew Shore was catching my eye as well throughout the game. Although Ferland had some big hits he had at least three atrocious give aways in the neutral zone, I wasn't very impressed with him.

Best moment of the game was the two Oiler fans in front of me constantly checking the score of the Edmonton game, and unleashing a mighty roar and double fist pump when the Oilers took the lead. They were so fired up and then when the game ended one said to the other "it's just preseason and doesn't mean anything" and the other guy nodded in agreement. lol

[northcrunk]

If we trade Stajan our buddy Raymond better be on the same plane outta here.

We had better move Raymond. He has fallen behind and is not an effective NHL player. He is this years Seto.

[868904]

Was at the calgary game last night, personally I'm giving props to Nurse. Smith pretty much jumped him (I'm surprised he didn't get an instigator) and he held his own against a bigger guy. If we're going to criticize the guy for caving in Anderson's face you kind of have to respect him for fighting Smith.



i think you are missing the point. Andersson had zero fight experience and is a skill player. Nurse has had plenty of fights and fighting is a part of his game. It doesn't matter that Smith is taller than Nurse. They are in the same weight class and they have been fighting the same guys in the OHL. It was a fair fight and no extra props need to go to Nurse. He needed to answer for his clown behaviour after the Andersson fight and he did.

[northcrunk]

i think you are missing the point. Andersson had zero fight experience and is a skill player. Nurse has had plenty of fights and fighting is a part of his game. It doesn't matter that Smith is taller than Nurse. They are in the same weight class and they have been fighting the same guys in the OHL. It was a fair fight and no extra props need to go to Nurse. He needed to answer for his clown behaviour after the Andersson fight and he did.

WTF was Nurse even doing in that fight? First Klinkhammer comes in as the third man, then Nurse graps Smiths nose like a little b@$@$. Nurse is going to be a target this year for teams just for how he plays like a punk.

[Galakanokis]

Yeah, Nurse slugged the crap out of that helmet/visor. Don't see how anyone actually wins that one, good tilt though and hopefully we see it for years to come. Nurse is not there yet but he has all the tools to be a very good defenseman, good prospect to have.

Glad hockey is back.

[Stay Golden]

Meh preseason. It means more to the bubble players and the coaches to determine who ends up back in Jr, AHL etc. Get some line combos figured out for chemistry and then start rolling them out.
I have zero concern losing the split squad games.
Game 1 is what matters to this fan.

[AltaGuy]

If I had one criticism of our team last night, it was that we didn't play (in Calgary) with the speed that was so effective last year. I hope that management sees how important that was to our success last year, and that once our roster is complete we have emphasis placed once more on it. Jooris, Byron, Backlund, etc were really missing from the forward ranks in Calgary.

On another note, Brodie has been pretty disinterested thus far in preseason, but I do hope to see him and Giordano reunited eventually on a permanent basis to form that excellent tandem.

[Street Pharmacist]

I know preseason means little, but if recent seasons are an indication, a very poor preseason is often a harbinger of a bad season. Success or middling preseasons seem to mean little, but terrible ones can carry over

[CroFlames]

I know preseason means little, but if recent seasons are an indication, a very poor preseason is often a harbinger of a bad season. Success or middling preseasons seem to mean little, but terrible ones can carry over

The only preseason I remember is when they went 6-0 and missed the playoffs. I think that was the year Fleury tried a come-back and scored his "historical" shootout goal. Other than that, I have no choice but to believe your claim.


Also, I don't understand the hate towards Nurse in this thread. Well, actually I do understand the hate. He's an Oiler. What I don't understand people belittling his play. He is a good d-man already, and has shown toughness. In my mind, he is NHL ready. Smart plays, and very good skater. He has the tools to be a great d-man. It sucks that he's an Oiler and not a Flame.

The Oilers blueline as a whole is not even in the same category as the Flames blueline, so we don't have to worry about 1 player. In fact, he'll probably get traded for picks anyway before his ELC is up.

[btimbit]

When are the next cuts?

[GranteedEV]

I know preseason means little, but if recent seasons are an indication, a very poor preseason is often a harbinger of a bad season. Success or middling preseasons seem to mean little, but terrible ones can carry over

As far as our division winners go:

The 2011 Canucks went 3-5-0
The 2012 Canucks went 2-5-0
The 2014 Ducks went 3-4-0
The 2015 Ducks went 2-3-1

So winning about 2-3 preseason games is probably a reasonable target.

[Textcritic]

...If we're going to criticize the guy for caving in Anderson's face you kind of have to respect him for fighting Smith...
This is not why posters have been criticising Nurse for his fight with Anderson. It has everything to do with his stupid antics after the fight.

[neo45]

Both games were pretty sloppy. We had some nice moments in the home game but started to fall apart. Due to the stream quality I had to keep switching back and forth


Hamilton looked very rusty in the defensive zone but will put up lots of points on the powerplay this year

Nakladal was solid. Could make the team, Hartley trusted him with over 20 minutes which is a good sign for him

Shore played really well even though he was on a line with Bollig and Smith. Interested to see what happens with him

Frolik was really strong. Brodie good as always

Poirer and Raymond had lots of giveaways and did not seem to be clicking with their linemates. Hartley really doesn't trust Poirer yet

The game in Edmonton had a better quality stream but the hockey was worse. Russell was probably the best player. Kylington and Engelland were surprisingly ok together. Backlund only got 10 minutes of icetime for some reason. I thought McDavid actually played pretty well

[MisterJoji]

I know preseason means little, but if recent seasons are an indication, a very poor preseason is often a harbinger of a bad season. Success or middling preseasons seem to mean little, but terrible ones can carry over


Haven't the Oilers typically had a preseason winning % > .500 for the last few seasons? Didn't work out to well for them in the regular season.

[Street Pharmacist]

Haven't the Oilers typically had a preseason winning % > .500 for the last few seasons? Didn't work out to well for them in the regular season.
Yes. Which goes along with what I said

[Textcritic]

Haven't the Oilers typically had a preseason winning % > .500 for the last few seasons? Didn't work out to well for them in the regular season.
Uh, that's basically just what he said—pre-season success means little.

[edslunch]

I know preseason means little, but if recent seasons are an indication, a very poor preseason is often a harbinger of a bad season. Success or middling preseasons seem to mean little, but terrible ones can carry over


A little early to be worrying about this

[GoJetsGo]

The hype for Nurse by Flames fans is getting to be a bit much.

Yes, he looks good. Big, physical and smooth skating.

But he's a defensman, and has looked very average to poor in his own end on my viewings so far. That doesn't mean anything long term, but as a defender he has a long way to go with his game before he's labeled a sure fire "great player for them".

Very difficult to make projections like that with defenders because of how huge a part of the game playing defensively is. And we all know in that setting (Edmonton) it's going to be an even more difficult assignment.

[Street Pharmacist]

A little early to be worrying about this
Who's worrying?

[YoungGuns]

What are the Flames charging for these games? I paid $165 per ticket. Fun night, but ouchh. What a rip off.

[YoungGuns]

I don't know why the other Oiler poster says Nurse kicked Smith's butt. It was 50/50 to me.

I thought he would have beat Nurse good and Nurse is a tough guy. Good tilt overall.

[GoJetsGo]

Deserves another look:

PTbgctXBacY

Gio in full hero mode in game 1 of the pre-season. I did like the way the entire sequence was highlighted by Lubo losing his mind explaining the grandeur of it all.

[Coach]

I think the best part of that sequence is Gio skating from the far opposing blueline to cut off a guy who got the puck at centre, and looks like he wasn't even going full speed. If it wasn't a 3-1, he could've taken that guy before he got inside the blueline. Crazy fast.

[ScorchyScorch]

And never will you see an Oiler wearing a letter do that in an exhibition game shift, ever.

That's why one team's coming off a second round exit, and the other another 1st OA gift on their doorstep.

[GioforPM]

The pre-season w/l record seems to me to be something that you don't worry about the first couple games and then look to improve upon as time goes on.

Anyway, I think the Flames had both games in hand (the little I could actually see on line) until they started experimenting with lines and D combos in the third periods.

As it is, what you look for at this early stage is what bubble guys like Shore/Nakladl/Wotherspoon/Poirier etc. are doing. Then I look for progress in the overall play the more the lineups get settled.

[YoungGuns]

And never will you see an Oiler wearing a letter do that in an exhibition game shift, ever.

That's why one team's coming off a second round exit, and the other another 1st OA gift on their doorstep.

Hall has gone down on his knees and tried blocking a shot against Vancouver (dumb move with the way he did it). That was pre-season.

Let's not get too carried away here.

*waiting for somebody to say Hall is dumb or has a very low IQ*

Giordano is one of the most respected dmen in the game. I'm not surprised he did that

[Coach]

Hall has gone down on his knees and tried blocking a shot against Vancouver (dumb move with the way he did it). That was pre-season.

Let's not get too carried away here.

*waiting for somebody to say Hall is dumb or has a very low IQ*

Giordano is one of the most respected dmen in the game. I'm not surprised he did that

You did that on your own. Glad to know Hall's defensive know-how is consistent in his shot-blocking as well.

[hockey.modern]

How did we do in preseason last year?

[btimbit]

What are the Flames charging for these games? I paid $165 per ticket. Fun night, but ouchh. What a rip off.

I went to every pre season game last year and paid $30 a seat for second level, centre ice. This year those tickets were over 120 each

[YoungGuns]

I was in the front row, but I still think that is a rip off. My choice, I know. People buy them I guess, so I can't blame them.

[Street Pharmacist]

How did we do in preseason last year?
4-3 I think

[Toonage]

How did we do in preseason last year?

Wikipedia says 5-4-0

[YoungGuns]

Pre-season means nothing. When the games have mattered, the Flames have kicked our behinds. I hope it can even be 50/50 soon as a rival fan.

[dammage79]

Who didn't play yesterday? Smid, Byron, Colborne, Jooris, Gillies, Kanzig, Kenny MO and Seiloff?

Seiloff, Morisson Colborne and Jooris should play against COL on thurday then... maybe.

[Street Pharmacist]

Wikipedia says 5-4-0
That is correct. I was only looking at September schedule on NHL. They played Colorado and Winnipeg in October

[Calgary4LIfe]

The hype for Nurse by Flames fans is getting to be a bit much.

Yes, he looks good. Big, physical and smooth skating.

But he's a defensman, and has looked very average to poor in his own end on my viewings so far. That doesn't mean anything long term, but as a defender he has a long way to go with his game before he's labeled a sure fire "great player for them".

Very difficult to make projections like that with defenders because of how huge a part of the game playing defensively is. And we all know in that setting (Edmonton) it's going to be an even more difficult assignment.

My thoughts exactly. Nurse to me has a phenomenal toolset - great size, grit, skating ability, passing, shooting and skates well with the puck.

What I notice he is horrible at sometimes is his decision making - especially under pressure. He seems a bit like a giveaway machine at the moment. Teams will be able to key-in on this and purposefully dump it on his side of the ice with a tonne of forechecking pressure.

However, with that being said, he is still very young and raw, and defencemen do take longer to develop. He will probably turn out to be a very important part of the Oilers' success (probably second only to McDavid) and a huge thorn in Calgary's side for years to come. Hopefully he will just 'Phaneuf-it' and be this flashy guy with an over-abundance of tools and be a first-pairing defencemen, yet make constant 3 third pairing mistakes. I do think he is one of the more interesting prospects from the Oilers' side of things to follow in the years to come.

But yes, he has some rather glaring issues, and I can't see him in the NHL to start the season this year. Call-up for sure - and then 'we'll see', but I think he is much too raw yet.

[Cali Panthers Fan]

With regards to Nurse and defensive acumen: Show me a fresh out of junior defenseman who doesn't need to work on that. This is why defensemen are rarely ready as 18 or 19 year-olds, and also another reason why someone like Ekblad is incredibly rare. Both physically and mentally ready as an 18 year old on defense is hard to find.

Nurse will eventually learn the decision making process, especially now that McLellan is there.

[YoungGuns]

My thoughts exactly. Nurse to me has a phenomenal toolset - great size, grit, skating ability, passing, shooting and skates well with the puck.

What I notice he is horrible at sometimes is his decision making - especially under pressure. He seems a bit like a giveaway machine at the moment. Teams will be able to key-in on this and purposefully dump it on his side of the ice with a tonne of forechecking pressure.

However, with that being said, he is still very young and raw, and defencemen do take longer to develop. He will probably turn out to be a very important part of the Oilers' success (probably second only to McDavid) and a huge thorn in Calgary's side for years to come. Hopefully he will just 'Phaneuf-it' and be this flashy guy with an over-abundance of tools and be a first-pairing defencemen, yet make constant 3 third pairing mistakes. I do think he is one of the more interesting prospects from the Oilers' side of things to follow in the years to come.

But yes, he has some rather glaring issues, and I can't see him in the NHL to start the season this year. Call-up for sure - and then 'we'll see', but I think he is much too raw yet.
I would pretty much agree with everything you said here. He has the tool-box. Can he put it all together? That remains to be seen.

[Robbob]

Did anyone notice right before the fight Bollig had words with Nurse? Smith came in shortly after and the fight started. Almost like Bollig said its me or Smith.

[Enoch Root]

With regards to Nurse and defensive acumen: Show me a fresh out of junior defenseman who doesn't need to work on that. This is why defensemen are rarely ready as 18 or 19 year-olds, and also another reason why someone like Ekblad is incredibly rare. Both physically and mentally ready as an 18 year old on defense is hard to find.

Nurse will eventually learn the decision making process, especially now that McLellan is there.

Yes, defense takes longer to learn, and expecting 19 and 20 year olds to not make mistakes is unrealistic.

But some context is needed here.

It's not that he is making the usual amount of mistakes for a 20 year old, it's that he makes a lot of bad decisions - especially when he is pressured.

Relative to other 20 year olds.

I agree that the tool box is there. But he is still a bit of a mess defensively.

Far too early to call him a Phaneuf. However, the risk of him Phaneuf-ing is definitely there - it's a possibility, because he does make some terrible decisions when pressured.

Time will tell, and I expect he will become a really good player. But the concerns are valid.

[northcrunk]

Did anyone notice right before the fight Bollig had words with Nurse? Smith came in shortly after and the fight started. Almost like Bollig said its me or Smith.

I don't doubt it at all. He's been a target since the young stars tournament. The kid is going to get the snot kicked out of him this season.

[codynw]

Did anyone notice right before the fight Bollig had words with Nurse? Smith came in shortly after and the fight started. Almost like Bollig said its me or Smith.

He probably would have just fought Bollig if that was the case. Bollig isn't a very good fighter, and Nurse has like 3-4 inches on him.

[GoJetsGo]

With regards to Nurse and defensive acumen: Show me a fresh out of junior defenseman who doesn't need to work on that. This is why defensemen are rarely ready as 18 or 19 year-olds, and also another reason why someone like Ekblad is incredibly rare. Both physically and mentally ready as an 18 year old on defense is hard to find.

I don't think anyone denies that... but the fact remains: anointing him as a "great" defenseman for Edmonton down the road is extremely premature. There is a long list of big players with great tools who don't put it together. That's why there's just no need to be paying any kind of praise at this point. A promising prospect? Sure. But in no way does that automatically translate to a sure thing for them down the road. There is no bigger "wait and see" than a young deneseman. It's an extremely difficult position to grow into and excel at.

[northcrunk]

He probably would have just fought Bollig if that was the case. Bollig isn't a very good fighter, and Nurse has like 3-4 inches on him.

Bollig still has 20 pounds on Nurse and Nurse is probably scared of him. Bollig is a big boy and Nurse only has 2 inches on him which isn't much.

[Coach]

What are the Flames charging for these games? I paid $165 per ticket. Fun night, but ouchh. What a rip off.

That's just the newly implemented McTax.

[mikephoen]

One good thing has come out of last night's two losses for me. I sold my tickets to the Oct 17th game against the oilers for and exorbitant amount on the ticket exchange this morning!

[Muffins]

Bollig still has 20 pounds on Nurse and Nurse is probably scared of him. Bollig is a big boy and Nurse only has 2 inches on him which isn't much.

And that 2 inches is all neck.

He's basically the Littlefoot of the NHL.

http://www.tsn.ca/polopoly_fs/1.166581.1419306463!/fileimage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_620/darnell-nurse.jpg
http://img2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20090119082315/landbeforetime/images/5/55/Littlefoot%3B_Kids_Like_Us.jpg

[YoungGuns]

I think Nurse would destroy Bollig.

[PaperBagger'14]

I think Nurse would destroy Bollig.

To no ones surprise would you say that.

[northcrunk]

I think Nurse would destroy Bollig.

LOL. That's why Nurse didn't drop the gloves with him?

[YoungGuns]

To no ones surprise would you say that.
How so? I called his last fight even.

[GranteedEV]

How so? I called his last fight even.

You do realize Bollig is a more specialized, and experienced fighter than Smith right?

[btimbit]

That'd be a good fight. I'm pretty sure Bollig doesn't feel pain, but he doesn't have the best balance so doesn't do too well against a Jackman type who tries to throw a guy around to avoid getting hit

[polak]

Wait are we talking Bollig with, or without the beard?

[getbak]

Nurse has a crazy long reach. At the combine in 2013, his wingspan measured in at 79" (6'7"). Smith's wingspan is 80".

Long reach can overcome a lot of deficiencies in technique. You could tell that both Nurse and Smith are used to holding the other guy back with their lefts and punching with their rights. When you're usually fighting guys with much shorter wingspans, that's all you really need to do because the other guy can throw as many punches as he wants, but none will make any impact.

[northcrunk]

Nurse has a crazy long reach. At the combine in 2013, his wingspan measured in at 79" (6'7"). Smith's wingspan is 80".

Long reach can overcome a lot of deficiencies in technique. You could tell that both Nurse and Smith are used to holding the other guy back with their lefts and punching with their rights. When you're usually fighting guys with much shorter wingspans, that's all you really need to do because the other guy can throw as many punches as he wants, but none will make any impact.

I don't get the face grab by Nurse. It was one of those "oh crap I'm getting my $@# kicked, better grab his nose/hair and squeeze until he stops hitting me"

[Azhouse]

I think Nurse would destroy Bollig.
:lol:
:no:

[Robbob]

I think Nurse would destroy Bollig.

So you think he would destroy Gazdic as well? Bollig and Gazdic have fought a few times in the minors. So would you put Nurse in the same category?

Bollig is by no means a nuclear deterrent, but he is by no means a slouch fighting.

I personally think Bollig went over to Nurse just to give him his two cents on the crap he pulled in Penticton. You know the fighters code and all that. IMO Nurse didn't play as close to the edge as he did in Penticton.

[YoungGuns]

I don't think Gazdic is a great fighter. He is 50/50. When he is "on" he's good, otherwise he isn't.

[CofR]

I can't believe more of a deal hasn't been made about the 3rd man joining in

[PaperBagger'14]

You do realize Bollig is a more specialized, and experienced fighter than Smith right?

Both smith and nurse are used to fighting teenagers. Bollig was bloodying his knuckles for 3 years in the NHL and several before that in NCAA. I'd say Bollig would open up the ketchup bottle on both of em.

[YoungGuns]

So you think he would destroy Gazdic as well? Bollig and Gazdic have fought a few times in the minors. So would you put Nurse in the same category?

Bollig is by no means a nuclear deterrent, but he is by no means a slouch fighting.

I personally think Bollig went over to Nurse just to give him his two cents on the crap he pulled in Penticton. You know the fighters code and all that. IMO Nurse didn't play as close to the edge as he did in Penticton.
He gave the guy a chance to opt out. Nurse didn't drop his gloves. What was he supposed to do?

[AcGold]

Yes, defense takes longer to learn, and expecting 19 and 20 year olds to not make mistakes is unrealistic.

But some context is needed here.

It's not that he is making the usual amount of mistakes for a 20 year old, it's that he makes a lot of bad decisions - especially when he is pressured.

Relative to other 20 year olds.

I agree that the tool box is there. But he is still a bit of a mess defensively.

Far too early to call him a Phaneuf. However, the risk of him Phaneuf-ing is definitely there - it's a possibility, because he does make some terrible decisions when pressured.

Time will tell, and I expect he will become a really good player. But the concerns are valid.

I would disagree, if he were on a team like Calgary, Detroit, Islanders but on Edmonton there's a serious risk he never learns solid two way play. Keep them on the outside in the d-zone, fast breakout passes. Keep the puck active in the offensive zone, high probability shots etc.

Odds are they'll skip major portions of that in Edmonton because the coach is too busy trying to get the rest of the team focused and working hard.

[Robbob]

I don't think Gazdic is a great fighter. He is 50/50. When he is "on" he's good, otherwise he isn't.

Not quite the denial I thought I would get comparing Gazdic and Nurse. Nurse is the second coming or William Wallace (8 foot tall shooting lightning bolts from his eyes and fireballs out of his arse) if you believe what some oiler fans are saying.

[YoungGuns]

I would disagree, if he were on a team like Calgary, Detroit, Islanders but on Edmonton there's a serious risk he never learns solid two way play. Keep them on the outside in the d-zone, fast breakout passes. Keep the puck active in the offensive zone, high probability shots etc.

Odds are they'll skip major portions of that in Edmonton because the coach is too busy trying to get the rest of the team focused and working hard.

I never get that sentiment. Where do you get off talking about 2-way play? Is your franchise some elite masters at it and have had a long history of those types of players?

[YoungGuns]

Not quite the denial I thought I would get comparing Gazdic and Nurse. Nurse is the second coming or William Wallace (8 foot tall shooting lightning bolts from his eyes and fireballs out of his arse) if you believe what some oiler fans are saying.
Nurse is Mike Tyson compared to Luke.

[AcGold]

I never get that sentiment. Where do you get off talking about 2-way play? Is your franchise some elite masters at it and have had a long history of those types of players?

Well, right now we kind of do. Long history? For a while there we were a zero way team. Backlund, Giordano, Brodie, Russell, Hamilton, Frolik, Gaudreau, Ferland, Bouma, Stajan, Monahan all play really strong 2 way games. What two way players does Edmonton have?

[YoungGuns]

Well, right now we kind of do. Long history? For a while there we were a zero way team. Backlund, Giordano, Brodie, Russell, Hamilton, Frolik, Gaudreau, Ferland, Bouma, Stajan, Monahan all play really strong 2 way games. What two way players does Edmonton have?

So your sample size is 1 or 2 years for some of those guys?

[CofR]

I haven't looked in the ENG thread in awhile, did so today... Forgot how much I love Oiler fans before the season starts.