My fear is how the Flames will do against a team that tries to beat them in the alley... they've wilted in those games in the past. Guys like Johnny and Monahan completely disappear. Edmonton game gave me some optimism though even though they got beat up a bit, they came around and played hockey.
I think the D is perfect right now, retrieves and moves the puck well which is what you need in today's NHL. Brodie is vastly improved, Hanifin deserves more credit than he's gotten, Hamonic and Gio are justifiably getting kudos and the rookies look great. In today's NHL you don't have tough guys on the blueline and win anymore.
Goalie, I'm still a bit concerned but resigned that the die is probably cast there.
For me if they were to make an addition for the playoffs and try to really go for it would be Wayne Simmonds. They need toughness that can play. He's a UFA on a bad team. Scores and stands up for teammates.
Problem is fitting him in, as I don't think you can touch the top 2 lines right now, Neal needs to play. So you bump Frolik to the 4th line and go with Neal-Ryan-Simmons on the 3rd? I like that line but seems like a waste of Frolik and Janko considering how little Peters uses the 4th. Also would cost the 1st rounder this year with certainty possibly plus an OK prospect.
Still if they are serious about taking a run this year, for me that's the move unless a goalie option that is a clear upgrade long term shows up.
Too bad they signed Neal or it would make even more sense as you could take a shot at locking Simmonds up long term.
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