[CsInMyBlood]

I hate Chris Butler.

I have never hid my hate of Chris Butler, he has been horrible for the Calgary Flames since he got here, he is now on his 3rd year as a Flame.

Many times I have sighted his lack of hockey IQ, horrible pass out of the zone, lack of coverage, handling the puck like it's a hand grenade, backing in giving opposing forwards time and space, screening his goalies, poor decisions on the blue line and a black hole on offense.

These last 5 games have been BY FAR the best hockey Chris Butler has played in a Flames uniform. Starting in Chicago all the way through to last nights game vs. San Jose he has played some very solid hockey and has averaged over 23 mins a night in this five game span.

His decision making has been top notch, his defensive coverage has been solid, passes out of his zone have been hard and crisp right on the tape. One backhand saucer pass out of the zone last night made me rewind the game so I could watch it again it was so beautiful.

He has skated the puck out of the zone and through the neutral ice with confidence, had some great hard shots on net from the blueline which were converted into goals or great chances on the ensuing rebound.

He has used his body to angle guys off the puck, been physical without taking his usual stupid penalties, hasn't served up the puck to opponents on a platter with a brutal giveaway and has blocked A LOT of shots.

I for one am totally shocked at his recent play as I have maybe missed watching one or two games total while he has worn the Flames jersey. There is zero doubt in my mind that this is the best hockey he has played in Calgary.

Don't know what has clicked in his head, what is different (perhaps Brodie as his D partner?) or what he is being fed, but I for one am enjoying watching what he has brought to the team over these last five games.

Kudos to you Mr. Butler, please keep it up.