Quote:
Originally Posted by Enoch Root
I have always said (well, over the last couple years) that the Flames aren't slow but they play slow. By that, I mean that they stood still a lot and they didn't generate any speed through the neutral zone.
The personnel changes from last year certainly add some speed, but many of the same players are back. The big difference is that they are pressing forward, and it is most noticable with the long breakout passes, but that is not the only change.
I think there are two big changes from last year: one is a brighter atmosphere and people are having fun; the other is that they are playing a much more up-tempo game and suddenly their team speed is evident.
I know a lot of people blame the Hawk game on them being tired, but I think the Flames surprised them with their skating. The same can be said for Detroit, Edmonton and probably Vancouver too.
I wish they were more physical, but I sure like the up-tempo skating
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They also aren't just dumping the puck up the same side boards into the neutral zone once they gain possession. The offside winger has clearance to go once they have the puck, which forces the opponent to fall back and defend. Hartley has it correct, the best way to generate offensive chances and limit defensive breakdowns is from the center of the ice in the neutral zone.