Quote:
Originally Posted by Flamenspiel
I listened to the FAN960 today, I'll agree with the team and Loubo on this one. The opponent is less important than resting up and healing all the injuries before the playoffs. If the Flames were to go all out and further risk injuries to get 1st place, the team will just cave in the first round.
At a minimum, the idea should be to retain 2nd place and rest everyone. Obviously Monahan has been injured for awhile, Bennett as well and who knows what other secret injuries are in play. Lets get all these AHL players some time and see who can potentially help the Flames in round 1. I remember that Ferland and Bennett were big a surprises a few years ago, lets see who can be the surprise performers this year.
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I'm not sure I agree with that. We've essentially been at the top of our division all season long, either leading or close to it. For us to rest players at this point and risk losing the divisional title would undermine a season's worth of effort from the players. I wouldn't be devastated with 2nd place but this is the entire reason we've put in the hard graft all season; to have a shot at home ice in the playoffs and an easier first round match up. In my mind, that gives us the best chance of progressing. Players can get injured at any time.
Also, we have a window here with these players where we should try and win 'something'. It's important to regain an identity and culture of winning again. It would be our first divisional title since 2006 and winning something, whether it's the division, conference championship or cup itself will only breed more confidence with this set of of players.