Quote:
Originally Posted by Erick Estrada
That 2nd period was one of the most horrific periods of Flames hockey I can remember. A total horror show. Maybe they can bounce back but there's something going on here as I don't recall a Flames team ever playing like that under Darryl Sutter in the playoffs.
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Totally agree. Each 2nd period of this series has been an absolute shirtshow and we played our worst game in recent memory in game 3. I would cite immaturity as the main reason, but according to this link Edmonton has the 3rd and the Flames have the 5th oldest team in the league:
https://www.quanthockey.com/nhl/team...nhl-stats.html
So perhaps not immaturity, but the lack of playoff experience with our younger stars is really shining through. Considering how well the Flames can play with confidence and structure, the difference to me appears to be all mental. Sutter is the king of perseverance, patience and tenacity and he's learning about these players with each game. With the turn of the ratchet, I hope this advantage enables the Flames to regain their confidence and play their game.
When Tkachuk and Rasmus make comments like "McDavid played half the game" or "we have to stop that one guy" when McDavid only played 20 min when 5 other Oilers had more ice time, it feels like all between the ears stuff.