It is just so impressive watching this team win games.
Last year: Outshot, out-possessed, and down by a couple goals in the 3rd? Win!
This year: Bad goaltending, breakdowns, worst PK and PP in the NHL. Win!
Flames to start the season were just not that confident bunch. They didn't have that swagger. They would kind of 'lose it' just like every other team does when things don't go their way. Now they are back to playing hard right up until the buzzer sounds with a bit more confidence and swagger. Sure, the Rangers managed to come back and tie it up - which is a terrible sign - but the Flames continued to play hard. Just a bit unlucky, and the Rangers are (and I hate to say it) a very good team that when they press, it is difficult to contain them.
Once the PP and PK get figured out, and once Hiller and Ramo return to last season's numbers (just need one of them to become 'average' again), this team will start rocketing up. I thought the season was over. Foolish me. They caught up even while things haven't been going well in so many areas!
Also, just a treat to watch. An absolute treat to watch Brodie and Gaudreau out there. A treat to watch Bennett just getting better and having the confidence to try more out there. This team will be a treat to watch for the next decade.
|