Really tough series. Flames were right there in every single game, and even dominated for much of the series. Bad goaltending, bizarre flukey bounces, 2 horrible game-changing calls by the officials, and some undisciplined play cost them in the end.
Some thoughts on the season:
Gaudreau- he had a decent season and still lead the team in scoring, despite being injured and missing training camp. But man, he clearly struggles against big physical teams and was pretty much a non-factor against the Ducks, except on the PP. Tonight was arguably his worst game as a Flame. He can be an amazing dynamic player against most teams, but until he learns how to play in those rough, physical tight-checking games, he'll continue to struggle. Same thing happens when he plays against the Kings as well. Really hoping he can figure out how to make the necessary adjustments to his game for next season. He's still young, so I'll give him some time.
Monahan- really stepped up in these playoffs. I'm so proud of him. And he's only gonna get better next year. He's a special player and will continue to be for a long time.
Tkachuk- what more can you say about him. Kid's a stud, and he's gonna be an absolute pleasure to watch for the next few years. Skilled, tough, and gets under the skin of pretty much everyone he plays against. Love it.
Elliott, Wideman, Bouma, Brouwer, Chiasson...bye bye. Don't let the door hit ya on the way out.
Johnson- we need to keep this guy. He's a solid backup, and he's one of the sole reasons we were able to climb out of the basement and make the playoffs.
Backlund- what an awesome year by Backs. So proud of him. The 3M line almost single-handedly got us back in the playoffs.
Gio/Hamilton- easily one of the best D pairings in the league. They both struggled a bit to start the year, but so did the entire team. But they eventually rounded into form. Dougie struggled somewhat in the Ducks series, but he's still pretty young. He'll figure it out.
Stone- please re-sign this guy. Dude is a beast.
Brodie- definitely an off year for him. He needs to be much better next year.
Ferland- really took his game to a new level this year. He's still too inconsistent, but I have faith he'll continue to improve next year.
Overall I think it was a pretty good season despite being swept. Lots of positives to build on for next year. #1 priorities for the summer: find a legit #1 netminder and get a decent scoring RW.
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