[AC]

https://www.nhl.com/flames/news/capt...og/c-299408718

On Neal:

"He finds a way to get it off so quick and, what's as important, is really, really accurate with it,'' marvels Flames' captain Mark Giordano of new band-mate James Neal.

"That's a pretty dangerous combination.

"We've played against him a lot over the years and the way he shoots the puck is really what stands out for me. You can't give him any room out there.

"I also think one of his underrated qualities is that he's no picnic to play against.

"He battles. He gets in your face. He's relentless that way. He's not afraid to go to the net, plant himself in front and grind out goals. Which explains why he's been able to score 20-plus goals for so many years."

On the team in general:

"With the players we've added over the last number of days, weeks, it's become a pretty deep group.

"We don't play against the guys from Carolina much, or anyone out east, you only get 'em a couple times a year but with everything out there nowadays, social media, endless highlights, you are able to get a better feel for all the players and teams.

"In that way, the league seems a lot smaller than it used to. And I've heard lots of good things about all of our pick-ups."

On reuniting with Brodie:

"Brodes and I had built a lot of chemistry,'' reminds Giordano. "We haven't played together for a couple of seasons but before that we were together for close to three years. We're good friends on and off the ice. We'll get used to each other again real quick if we're put together again, I'm sure."