Flames core is almost there. They are still really really young and despite the impatience on this site, they aren't quite at their peak potential yet.
The only thing that I would say hinders this core is Mike Smith, and goaltending situation in general.
Smith isn't a goalie who takes you on a deep playoff run, but if he can teach one of the younger guys some tricks this season and if one of Gilles or Rittich really steps up and takes over then we are in business and can go on a deeper run.
Smith just doesn't cut it for me over an 82 game season. but the rest of this core doesn't get enough credit and they will be very good the next few years.
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