Quote:
Originally Posted by delayedreflex
Gotta wonder how much of this is because of how good Dallas is at clogging the middle of the ice and getting into passing lanes though. It seems to me that the Flames are shooting more because the pass option is not as available as it has vs. many of their past games. How much of this is due to the Flames being off their game vs. good structure/defence by Dallas is not that clear.
The unfortunate thing is that Oettinger has been very good at stopping direct shots this series. Flames have certainly scored on a number of shots in the regular season that were similar to the ones that we've been getting in this series (eg. Johnny shooting instead of deking on a breakaway) - I do feel like Oettinger has been a bigger difference maker than people are giving him credit for. I think that's why the Flames really need to get more deflections/screened shots because those are the ones that even the best goalies can have no chance on.
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I don't think there's any question that Dallas deserves some credit. A LOT of credit. It has been their solid defensive play that has gotten the Flames shooting instead of passing.
But I would also argue that the Flames haven't worked hard enough to get open for passes. In the playoffs, there is going to be less space, you have to make your space.
Instead of finding ways to get open and play their game, they are turning away and taking the simpler plays. That is why they are behind in the series, IMO.