[N-E-B]

Originally Posted by Machiavelli

They're a better team for sure, and yes it's hard to be super critical when they're still in the mix. It's helped that the Kings and Preds have been very meh, compared to expectations.

However, I don't see an identity at all, and that annoys me. The Flames are like a box of chocolates...

Giordano is my favorite, and he's been a rock defensively, but if Iggy faced criticism for a "country club" locker room, there should be questions about this guy too. Gulutzan doesn't talk to them after games, so I sure as hell hope Gio is doing something other than providing the same sound bytes to the Calgary Herald.

And on the topic of leadership, again I must question Brouwer. Did he even play last night? Chiasson (yes, that Chiasson) has been more impressive and tenacious. I notice him on the forecheck, along the boards, and often in scrums. He seems like he cares, most of the time. Brouwer cared the one time that meanie bumped him into the net.

Generally I don't get much joy or entertainment out of watching this season's Flames (I'm fascinated by many OOT games, however). I'm still hopeful for the playoffs, but disappointed at how often they've seemed to just give up.

Those are completely fair criticisms. My post was more directed to the people (who shall remain nameless but they know who they are) calling out Treliving because he hasn't built a contender yet. I don't think that's fair to do quite yet. If they progress again next year they're in the playoffs. Rebuilds are long and painful. If we're still in this position in two seasons then I think it would be okay to panic.