Quote:
Originally Posted by Mike F
To refresh memories (I needed mine refreshed) last year's starting lineup (based on the October 24 game vs Dallas for forwards (first game with healthy forwards) and the opening night vs Washington for defense) was:
Glenncross - Stajan - Stempniak
Cammalleri - Monahan - Hudler
Galiardi - Backlund - D. Jones
Bouma - Colborne - Jackman/McGrattan
Giordano - Brodie
Russell - Wideman
O'Brien - Butler
Ramo
MacDonald
|
Glencross - Backlund - Hudler
Raymond - Stajan - Setoguchi
Colborne - Monahan - D.Jones
Bollig - Bouma - McGrattan
Giordano - Brodie
Russell - Wideman
Smid - Engelland
Hiller
Ramo
Forwards: Flames gave up Cammalleri, Stempniak, Galiardi, Jackman for Raymond, Setgouchi, Bollig. It appears to be a downgrade, but Colborne, Monahan, Backlund with a full season of experience makes them a lot better at the start of this year than last.
Defense: Butler, O'Brien for Smid, Engelland <--- big upgrade, not to mention Brodie getting a full season as a top-pairing defenceman under his belt.
Goalie: Hiller for Berra <--- big upgrade
Not to mention, the Flames could get a big surprise from Gaudreau, Baertschi, or even Bennett.
I think this year's team is stronger than last year's.