[Cali Panthers Fan]

Strange seeing all the negative comments on here during that period.

I thought the Flames really carried the play. While they gave up a lot more shots on net, only a couple were really dangerous. The Flames played a lot in the offensive zone and very little in their own zone, unless my internal clock is busted again. They drew 4 penalties, meaning the Blues were playing a step behind most of that period.

This is where the stats fail sometimes, because the Blues shoot the puck any time there's a lane at the net, and all shots not taken by Tarasenko were fairly routine saves for any NHL goalie. Hiller had a couple nice stops, but he didn't have to stand on his head or anything.

I'm encouraged by what I'm seeing. That's probably the strongest overall period the Flames played in terms of executing their system. Needs to be a little stronger in the shot suppression category, and they eventually made the adjustment on the PP to handle the overaggressive Blues PKers (see Wideman's move to the middle of the ice on the Hudler goal for a great example). I just hope they continue this the whole game.

Couple of odd things: I don't remember seeing Kulak and Engelland at all that period. Can anyone verify them being on the ice? Also, Hamilton looks a little better, but he can be a much stronger player. I have a feeling Hartley is going to be moulding him throughout the year. Seems like he's an unfinished talent still.