Originally Posted by wretched34
As shown above, since January 18th, the Flames are tied for 4th in the Western Conference, with Colorado, and 8th in the league. The recent play shows that we are capable of being a good team, and playing well against other top teams.
That 14-9-0-1 record does not show that 7 of those regulation losses were 1 goal losses, and 2 were 2 goal losses.
The excuse of "other teams taking us lightly" isn't valid at this point. The majority of the last 24 games have been against playoff teams battling for home ice, or teams battling for wildcard spots. Those teams don't just roll into Calgary to play half a** and expect to win, they have reason and determination to win.
15 of the last 24 games have been against those playoff, or wildcard teams, and we have a .500 record against them, 7-7-0-1, but a 4-1-0-0 record against teams I consider top 5: San Jose (played 3 times in past 24 games and are 2-1-0-0), Anaheim (1-0-0-0) Chicago (1-0-0-0).
With the current roster, we're not a contender, or a threat, but we are a workhorse, and resilient as H*ll.
With a little more talent injected, without throwing off the chemistry, this team can make noise.
We have a solid depth core, with an amazing identity and attitude. A top 3 winger, and a true Starter could be the difference. At least difference enough to turn alot of those 1 goal losses, into wins, or at least OT point.
Is Ramo that starter? or a tandem of Ramo/Ortio strong enough to make up for it. It appears it's possible. Is Gaudreau that top 3 winger? or is Gaudreau + Poirier/Klimchuk enough if we can't land an elite UFA or make a trade?
I think next season will have us pushing for a wildcard spot with the roster close to what it is today. If Burke makes an addition or too to help Offensively, I think playoffs are a realistic thought.
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