The thing I noticed was the Flames inability to create turnovers at their blue line and get away to their quick transition into offense like we've seen most of the season. The Avs did a great job getting past the Flames sticks and bodies, got established in the zone and went to work once there.
Ultimately I think the loss could be a good thing. Everyone (from fans to players) was probably feeling great about game one and started seeing the glory that awaits. But in the playoffs you have to be ready for war every game. Elite players like Mackinnon are not going to stand by and watch you cruise to victory. The Flames will have to get some performances like that from their top players in response.
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A few weeks after crashing head-first into the boards (denting his helmet and being unable to move for a little while) following a hit from behind by Bob Errey, the Calgary Flames player explains:
"I was like Christ, lying on my back, with my arms outstretched, crucified"
-- Frank Musil - Early January 1994
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