If the Flames weren't winning this would be a bigger conversation. In theory I don't like Zadarov's play on the ice, I don't like his match with Gudbranson, and sitting a high potential guy like Valamki doesn't make a lot of sense.
But the Flames are rolling so the theory doesn't matter. Gudbranson is playing well, so you have to give some of the credit to his partner. The Flames have a young and relatively inexperienced D, and the big veteran already has his rookie to mentor. Zadarov kills penalties and I can't see Sutter trusting Valamaki with that.
Overall we have been able to run three pairings and they are doing well. It's a team game, and Sutter likes the make up as is. Tough to argue with the results.
With the travel behind us though you have to wonder why Valamaki isn't in the AHL. Having the security made sense when we lived in the East. But it would be nice to see him get some ice time.
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