[Caged Great]

The good

Getting wins despite not being in sync. There is virtually no difference between last year's start and this year's other than two things. Mike Smith playing at a level similar to Elliott/Johnson's best from last year and the quality of the opponents. If the Flames had to play tougher teams, they probably would not have as many points right now. The only two good non-injured teams that they have faced won by a combined score of 9-0. Anaheim is beat up and the other teams are not likely going to make the playoffs.

Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan are ready to start the season.

TJ Brodie has an NHL defense partner.

The Bad

Pretty much everything that contributed to the horrid start a year ago is still there. Fluked out to a 4-2 start frankly. Yes they won a number of games. They are also deep and that contributes to that. However, they cannot continue to play like this otherwise losses will start to pile up. They play 6 good teams in their next 6 games with only Dallas and Carolina being on the weaker side. If they do not make alterations to their lack of attention to details that has plagued them in their first six games, I would be surprised if they win more than 2 of the next 6.



That all being said, they have a perfect opportunity with the 4 days off to get things in order so that way they are not making as many poor decisions, especially those that lead to penalties, and can continue adding wins to their record. They should not be happy with their start despite their record.