Quote:
Originally Posted by Igottago
I don't totally disagree with you, but I'm not advocating for a scorched earth approach. To me Tkachuk isn't even on the list of people I'm questioning yet. But some of the other guys I was expecting to really embrace the leadership role in the playoffs this year didn't do it.
I tend to look for indications that there is reason for more patience but this years performance was so shockingly bad that I don't even know how to wrap my head around it. Its terrible that for our best players, the guys who all had great seasons, we can't look at a single one of them and say "at least he really stepped it up for the playoffs".
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How is Tkachuk not on your list then? I agree all of our best players failed and that is why they got dominated and are out in 5 games. Tkachuk has been brutal in his 2 playoff runs. Monahan scored in all 4 games against a bigger tougher Ducks team. He and Johnny exploded when the team was down 3-0 in game 6 in 2015 to help orchestrate a comeback to win the series. Both players were clutch in that game. Johnny’s late tying goal against the Ducks.
The Flames made fairly sweeping changes last year bringing in Lindholm, Neal, Ryan, Mangiapane up front and Hanifin, Andersson, Valimaki/Kylington on the back end. I am not sure they are going to make massive changes this summer but more tinkering. Move out a Dman or two (Brodie+Stone) improve the size and grit up front and make room for Dube.
Ultimately I agree about the top players. It was really a kick in the junk to have this happen after hearing them talk all year about stepping up in the playoffs. At the end of the day I rather take our chances with our players figuring it out than trying to shuffle the deck too much. I do love a good blockbuster deal though