[Yamer]

In the light of day, there really is no shame in losing to Ekblad. My only qualm is that the Panthers, who are comparable roster-wise (maybe a bit better) to the Flames, could not make the playoffs in an equally weak division on the back of Ekblad's efforts and contributions. Both he and Gaudreau made players around him better, but Johnny did it to a point that was a major influence in getting the Flames into 3rd in their division.

The real sting is seeing Gaudreau finish behind Stone in voting. Mark Stone, who flipped a switch at the same time as the rest of the team and surged for a third of the season. No doubt that he contributed to Ottawa making their way into the playoffs (especially that final clinching game with 2 goals), but I think it establishes a sad precedence that a third of the work occurring under the spotlight resonates more than a season long effort by one of the more talented and creative players in the league.

I still think Johnny did more with less, and did it more consistently, and thus should have been the Calder recipient last night. If age is a factor, so should be size and previous experience. Either way I know the Flames have something special in Johnny Hockey, and in the long run this recognition will pale in comparison to the accolades he and the Flames should be contending for in the not so distant future.