[David Struch]

Smith has played better of late. I won't argue that. Still, his season as a whole has not been good and there's never been a point where he'd make anyone believe otherwise for more than a week or two. I don't understand why he continues to get trotted out in big games.

Last night was particularly frustrating. The Flames were the better team and they still lost by a pair thanks to blunders from Smith.

The opening goal in the 3rd was completely inexcusable. There's no defense you can make for Smith. He is paid millions of dollars to guard the net and he legitimately left it entirely exposed for 10 seconds. Ridiculous.

It's not like this is anything new, either. Almost exactly a week ago Smith gave a goal away because he left the net. He has done it numerous times before, too.

Making matters worse last night was the goal Smith soon after allowed to Ryan Donato. Was it a hard shot? Sure, but Smith shouldn't be beaten from that distance on an unscreened shot where he was fully set and able to challenge.

https://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog/Todd...stly/202/98110