I don't blame the early season struggles on Smith. To me it looked like he lost his confidence after the team hung him out to dry for 3-4 games. Looking back, he was a huge factor in that win over Nashville. It's been heightened because they have hung Rittich out to dry to, but luckily he's played like Patrick Roy in his prime.
As long as the Flames can protect the slot and limit these 10 bell chances to 1 or 2 per game they will be okay. Both Smith and Rittich are capable goalies.
|