Quote:
Originally Posted by Vinny01
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
|
I think there is more to it; I think there is a reason the players "didn't show up when it mattered." Monahan was probably nursing an injury that they tried to keep quiet. Did the players play for Mike Smith, leadership, or did the coach lose the room at some point? We don't know the reasons but it does seem odd that they talked all year about showing up in the playoffs then didn't leave everything on the ice when it mattered.
Whatever the reason I don't the Flames played their best hockey against the Avalanche, Something doesn't add up, instead of coming together the team folded.