Great assessment.
I agree with everything you said about the Leafs, and the Avs analysis is good. But to say that the Flames are better built isn't totally correct in my books.
The Flames are built on Defense while the Avs are built on offense.
Both teams have defensively responsible top 6 forwards. But for today, the Avs forward depth is better.
Do I think the Flames will suffer the same fate? No.
The reason why is that I have always believed that the D drives the game. That's why the Preds are continually competitive. Their D is elite and make the forwards that much better (eg Ribeiro..)
I think the Flames also get the added benefit of playing in a very weak Pacific. If the Avs were in our division they would have had a great chance of making the playoffs at the Flames expense.
Going forward I think this will be a interesting comparison to watch. I think the Flames are better built for long term success, but the Avs have a deadly team. Just imagine if they had Hamilton instead of us... Changes a lot.
Regardless, very good assessment.
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