Most of the pieces are in place, but key pieces are very young. Gaudreau and Monahan can score, but they need to show they can score when up against the best d-pairings and checking lines in the NHL. Bennet is still only a kid. Tkachuk hasn't played a game in the NHL yet. Hamilton is still very raw - so raw he didn't make the Team North America roster for the World Cup.
To take the next step, a lot of players need to get better. And the team will need to learn how to keep the puck out of its net. I expect the Flames to struggle out of the gate with a new coach and system. I see them in the mix for a playoff spot, but not a lock by any stretch of the imagination.
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Originally Posted by fotze
If this day gets you riled up, you obviously aren't numb to the disappointment yet to be a real fan.
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