There are so many things to like, but just sticking with the broad strokes, let's look at the major frustrations under Gulutzan, and how Peters compares:
1) team played a slow game, which killed the offense (27th overall)
2) they were boring (seriously considered not renewing my STs)
3) despite the commitment to possession, they were terrible defensively (19th in GA)
4) the D wasn't active enough, and were under-utilized offensively (146 pts from D)
5) the bench management, and in-game adjustments, were... well there weren't any
So far with Peters:
1) the team plays an uptempo game (currently 6th in GPG)
2) they are far more entertaining to watch, win or lose
3) they are vastly improved defensively (currently 3rd overall in GAPG)
4) the D is much more active (on pace for 199 pts, despite trading Hamilton)
5) bench management infinitely better (subjective, and just my opinion)
Let's keep in mind that the team had a pretty slow start (5-5-0), with some struggles in net. It's also fair to assume an adjustment period to the new coach and new system. But since the PIT game on Oct 25th, the Flames are:
16 - 5 - 2 (.739 W%, 121 PPG pace)
#2 overall record
T2 in regulation wins
#5 GPG
#1 GAPG
#2 goal differrential (+28, TB +30, with 2 more games played)
#8 shots for per game
#1 shots against per game
All of these stats scream elite. And none of them suggest luck or unsustainability.
The only grade we can give Peters to this point is A+. It is of course, still very early. But 33 games into the season, he sure has been impressive so far.
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