I think a lot of the veterans are coming to terms with the fact the team is in a down cycle. Remember Rasmus was around for the division winning teams. The Flames aren't that anymore. He's probably realizing this team could be out of the playoffs for a period of years. It must have an impact on your motivation and energy levels.
I think that's why its going to be hard for Conroy to thread the needle between rebuild and remain competetive at the same time. You almost need that crop of young guys coming up together with no expectations. The vets are going to get tired of it quickly.
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A few weeks after crashing head-first into the boards (denting his helmet and being unable to move for a little while) following a hit from behind by Bob Errey, the Calgary Flames player explains:
"I was like Christ, lying on my back, with my arms outstretched, crucified"
-- Frank Musil - Early January 1994
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