Next season is critical for the team. The poor results this year can justifiably be explained away on goaltending and special teams. Not that there isn't room to improve other areas, too, but with league-average netminding and pp, the Flames are far from the basement, IMO.
Next year, however, they must show something or the rebuild will be in question. I think the team still needs an identity that they can bring every night, and some consistency in the face of adversity. They won't be young forever.
I think Hartley's leash will be short if they are not off to a good start, and the pressure for this core to perform will be high, as it should be.
Despite the reality of the standings, I think it is ridiculous to compare this squad to some of the worst-ever Flames teams, BUT another failure next season and all bets are off.
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