Here are my 10 things the Flames should do to win this series.
1. Start on time and bring the physicality early, especially against Draisaitl. The guy is hurting and can barely skate, hit him early and often with hard clean checks. If we can take him out of the series early that just leaves McDingus as the real big threat.
2. When McDavid is on the ice one of Backlund or Lindholm should be as well when possible. Make his life hell, take your hits against him, double team him at times, make the rest of the Oilers try and beat us.
3. Get a lot of traffic in front of Mike Smith. Everybody should be chirping at him all the time because he is a hot head. He will make stupid decisions but he will make even more when he is losing his crap. I actually think Koskinen will be there go to guy by game 3.
4. Get in Evander Kane's face. Another hot head who will make dumb decisions, stay disciplined and don't retaliate when he loses his mind.
5. Zach Kassian. See post 4.
6. Play their game and don't get caught up in the media circus BOA crap. If they keep their composure they should roll over this Oilers team quite easily.
7. Try and stay out of the box. Unfortunately the Oilers are going to get their looks on the PP no matter how disciplined the Flames play because game management. Just don't take dumb penalties that are legit dumb penalties.
8. Throw everything at the net. Don't look for the cute perfect play or pass, this is Mike Smith in net we are talking about here. He has an uncanny ability to make great saves on high danger shots but let in far away weak softies.
9. Have fun. Enjoy playing in the series. Feed of the loud Saddledome crowds.
10. Win baby! Just win! GFG.
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