I thought it was a good job by Bennett to force Ward to promote him. Bennett started to attack the net directly - the only Flame to really do so - and then got bumped up to the Backlund line.
That 4th line needs some work. Jankowski was a disappointment last season, but his 2 previous seasons to start his career were good. Now it looks like a defensively sound playmaker playing with guys with hands of stone. At least Nordstrom has wheels, and I think that was a missed call on his breakaway, so I think he was ok.
I am also hoping that Leivo (or Simon) will end up working out on the Monahan - Gaudreau line. That line looked FANTASTIC with Hudler on it while they were playing quickly north-south AND east-west. That line looked great most nights with Ferland as well - he made a lot of room for them, was the defensively responsible forward on that line, and was quick. His ability to forecheck the puck off the boards and being a legitimate threat with his release was also great for that line. It is surprising how it seems so difficult to find someone that can play with those two well.
They better figure it out this season. They can't continue being a detriment to the team. They were responsible for a number of Calgary's wins in the past (IMO at the very least), but they simply aren't carrying their weight on the team and haven't been for some time. This was the first game, so who knows what real adjustments are being tried out. I really hope they get that line fixed, because the Flames aren't going anywhere with those two being terrible 5on5.
Bennett would be the most logical fit on that line as he will add some speed, some forechecking ability, be able to stick up for them when needed, and attack the net causing some confusion. However, I think it is smarter to try and use Leivo/Simon for a little while and see if it clicks - Mangiapane - Backlund - Bennett sure seemed like and effective line last night.
|