As all ways thanks for the insight Calgary4LIfe. I think that you have a fair analysis. But I disagree a little on your evaluation of the Avs defence. I think that Defence has been a strength of theirs this year. Their true weakness is their bottom two lines and when those lines are on their defence struggle to find puck support. That said, when their top two lines are on, the Avs D prove to be very responsible with the puck.
The big thing for Colorado, like you pointed out, is that they are opportunistic. When they get a chance they more often than not make it count. The top line especially plays very well off of the rush. They can go from trapped in their zone to goals for in a matter of seconds.
There will be three keys to the Flames success.
First, the bottom two lines need to score some goals, they will be free and clear to do some damage and players like Neal will have to make it count.
Second, special teams. The Avs have a pretty deadly power play, but a poor PK. The Flames are going to have to make their odd man advantages count, because Colorado certainly will.
Third, mental toughness. The Avs can be very frustrating to play against because they can lead games even though they are being out shot. It feels like small mistakes turn into goals against this team, and they have a few players who are always dangerous. The Flames need to keep pushing even if a few cheap goals go in.
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