Quote:
Originally Posted by PepsiFree
Sure, the Flames have beat some of the 28 higher ranked teams (including shutting down Crosby) but the ultimate judgement rests on GG ability to beat McDavid and the 29th place Oilers.
Sounds logical.
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It's definitely more impressive straight up to defeat a top tier team like the Penguins but as far as importance in the regular season goes, games within the division and conference are the most important as they represent 4 point swings. The Oilers sweeping the Flames was the difference between them having home ice advantage in the first round and the Flames starting on the road. The provincial rivalry makes the stakes that much higher.
Gulutzan does need to prepare the team better when facing the Oilers as McDavid has kind beat up the Flames (10 points in 5 games) under his watch. Plenty of teams can keep him in check but the Flames have had issues doing that and if you reduce his effectiveness you win more than not against that team.