Quote:
Originally Posted by ricardodw
Flames defense TOI in March 2016 w/o Russell and Wideman
Mark Giordano, D 25:11
T.J. Brodie, D 24:33
Deryk Engelland, D 21:42
Dougie Hamilton, D 21:12
Jyrki Jokipakka, D 17:22
Jakub Nakladal, D 14:45
The best +/- was Engelland with a +1.
With the idea of cutting Goals against from 260 to 210 (only Nashville with 15 and Dallas 230 made the playoffs in the west giving up more than 210 goals) look for Engelland to get more ice time than expected and Hamilton less... more of a PP specialist.
I do not think that Hiller gave up 50 soft goals of the 79 he let in.
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Sure Hiller didn't let in 50 bad goals of 79... But his 2 counter parts also contributed to the bad goals.
That said, the entire defensive system was in shambles last year. From start to finish and from the net out (Fwds, D and Goalies).
But like you said yourself, 2 teams with over 210 goals made the playoffs.
So if the Flames can cut the GA by 30-40, which I have no doubt they can (new system, new goalie and a healthy and season ready Gio and Brodie).
So.. Playing Engalland more isn't the solution, other factors turning for the positive which again, I don't see why they won't, then we are on the cusp and competing for a playoff spot.