Quote:
Originally Posted by Tinordi
The book on Smith is that he runs really hot then goes really cold. We're in a protracted hot steak with Smith which is great but, based on his history, a stretch of games is coming when he won't be the best goalie on the ice.
It's why the scoring issue is so urgent. We know that, to win some games were going to have to outscore the other team, not rely on Smith shutting the door because Smith can't be relied on to do that for a whole season. He's just never shown that ability.
It's also why I like the move for Lack. Hopefully the Flames will recognize that Lack's window is opening up and give Smith a break.
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Pretty much.
But when you think of it the timing is perfect. The Flames are going through a period of time where they're not filling the net, and the goalie is bailing them out.
They'll find their groove and maybe Smith slides at the same time and the team continues to move up the standings.
Talent comes into it for sure, but when you look at some key metrics you see the Flames ...
Five on five
5th in Corsi for Events per game at 47.8
11th in five on five shots per game at 24.2
15th in scoring chances per game at 8.3 (12th in scoring chances against and a positive 0.5 scoring chances per game).
This isn't a team getting out played, especially if you take the first game of the season out of the mix.