Just caught up on the PVR due to working late. First off, I'm floored that I was able to make it to this morning without having the result spoiled.
I really do think that many of the playoff cliches ring true. Its the results that matter. One game at a time. I've heard that there's no momentum in the playoffs. Not that it doesn't exist, just that it can change so easily.
Colorado is s good team. You can tell they're well coached. Yeah sure they're a one line team, but in game 2, the Flames didn't have an answer for that one line. Though as far as the stat line goes, each top line had a goal.
The lopsided offensive zone time is pretty crazy, but to the Flames credit, the Avs directly had nothing to show for it. Their goals were on a bad bounce and off the rush. They certainly had their chances, but the Flames composure defensively while under seige was impressive for lack of a better word. Bend but don't break.
As much as the Avs dominated large portions of this game, you could argue that the Flames could have easily won it, save for some bad luck and missed opportunities. That speaks to the quality of this team and their structure.
Its been a ling time since this phrase was muttered around these parts, but never apologize for having great goaltending. Last I checked, Smith is part of the 23 man roster. His play is as relevant as any others.
I think secretly many of us hoped for a sweep, but the playoffs ate never easy. The Avs are a good team, and I think have been a little under appreciated. McKinnon is reminding me of Iginla the way he affects the game every time he's on the ice. The rest of the Avs are playing their roles to a T, regardless of the talent gap.
This is now a series. There were 2 question marks heading into the post season. Early on the first seems to have been answered. The second question of playoff experience is continuously under review. You can see players still adjusting.
Brodie wasn't great. Lindholm was better than game 1, but still seems a bit shell shocked, I think he's finding his way. Gio seemed a bit more savvy last night. Monahan was better. Playoff Sam Bennett has arrived.
I also think the 3M line took a step back. They were excellent in game 1.
Disappointed in the loss, but I think for a group of players that is learning on the fly what it takes in the playoffs, they're in decent shape.
|