[CroFlames]

CroFlames 31 thoughts:

• The top line looks like a top line with Jagr on the wing. He's actually not as slow as some supposed (this guy included). There was one play where he hustled his ass to the net on a two on one and I couldn't believe his speed. He was not passed the puck, but boy that was nice to see.
• Usual Jagr stuff along the boards. He's great at protecting the puck and was unlucky not to score at least one. Great chemistry among the two lads and the grandpa on the first line. Johnny was great at zone entry and holding the puck, Monahan's positioning was great, but could improve his FO percentage slightly. Great scoring touch as usual.
• Backlund's line was good. There were creating chances, but hard to gain any momentum or flow when the play is constantly being chopped up by penalty kills. Tkachuk pissing players off when not hitting the scoresheet, what a beauty.
• PKers were good too (they've had lots of practice, ha!)
• Discipline is a disaster. Not much else to add. Some questionable calls this season, but that is nothing new since the dawn of time.
• Smith outstanding again.
• Bennett not as bad as many are making him out to be. Disappointing he hasn't 'broken out' yet though. Even great players go through a month or two where nothing goes right because of expectations. He's feeling the pressure and likely trying to do too much. Hopefully he can calm down and play the way he can.
• When a player is struggling like Bennett is, I think its a great idea to move him to the wing to gain some confidence.
• Perfect opportunity to call up Janko. Why not ice your best roster?
• I hate the 4th line. Overpaid and isn't good at any one facet of the game. If you are going to be an energy line, then give me Lazar and Hathaway all day long. Brouwer and Stajan have become replaceable, bloated contracts.
• The top 4 D are playing well. I can't quite put my finger on why so many chances are given up though. Overall team defense, and forwards missing assignments? Hard to say. Gio has been a beast since Game 2, Brodie, Hamilton and Hamonic very solid. I've probably been so concerned about scoring goals the past few games I haven't paid attention to the specific breakdowns in our end.
• Bottom pair is a bottom pair. Wouldn't mind giving Kulak a crack at it and let Bart watch a few games. Can't wait till Rasmus is ready, I think that kid is showtime.
• Credit where it's due. Carolina played a great road game. Skated their asses off and forechecked aggressively. Wore the Flames down and clogged them up.
• With all the parity in the league, sometimes you just need some plain ol good luck to win games. Flames were unlucky at times this game.

Just kidding, it's not 31 thoughts.