Quote:
Originally Posted by Locke
The problem is that on some nights that statement is correct and on others it isnt.
Could you imagine what the Flames' season would have looked like if it didnt take 2 months for Elliot to get his game together?
And even when he was on his game he still routinely allowed one bad goal a game.
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Well, this is the perfect description of an average NHL goaltender, which is exactly what Elliott is. There is good reason to think that while he is not a perfect option, even Elliott next season will be an improvement on Elliott from this year. The bad start was not just him—it was the entire team, and I think quite understandably he struggled with a new team, a higher level of attention, and the fact that this was a young group who took time adjusting to a new coach. Furthermore, Elliott has a pattern of alternating good and average seasons, and last year for him was a poor season which followed a great one.
I am hoping that the Flames go in different direction in goal next year, but people need to get a grip here: even IF Elliott happens to re-sign with the Flames, they will continue to be a playoff team, and should have a better season than 2016–17.