[PGT] If you want to win, employ a Fin (Flames 2 Sharks 1)

[djsFlames]

I'm wondering though why we're still using Hudler in our first 3 shooters.. He hasn't been great for us in the SO since becoming a Flame. Colborne, Monahan, Cammy would be my automatic 3 to start, seeing as they've been our most reliable shooters all year.

[puckluck2]

Originally Posted by calumniate

Eric Francis being positive is the most surprising thing to me. He's much more likeable this way. Jeez, who's next? Moon??

Knowing Eric Francis....

[Phanuthier]

I didn't get to see the game but I was listening on Sharks radio (headed up to the city, long drive)...... if you guy are worried about the Flames not getting enough respect, they got a ton of respect from Sharks radio. From the start of the game, major talk about how the Flames don't give up, lots of speed, lots of youth, lots of energy, dangerous etc...... nice to hear from the other side how much respect the Flames have. I too wasn't a big fan of Bob Hartley at first, but he's got me sold - this is my favorite team since probably 2008. I really want that top 3 pick, but how can you not love this team right now? Feels great being a Flames fan right now despite the standings.

[Dion]

[AC]

Originally Posted by Cali Flames Fan

Many thanks. Not nearly enough Mr. Show posts around here.

[combustiblefuel]

I asked after the shootout why Kari was chasing the puck for his collection He finally answered the question. In the post game interview it was his first shoot out win in a flames jersey. Hartley has everyone proud to be a Calgary Flame. Kari congratulations on the First and hopefully many shootout wins in a flames uni.

[djsFlames]

If we can focus on winning 5 more games each season, we'll be playoff bound in a relatively short amount of time. But I think that should be the long term goal of the team.

We've got 30 now, looking at 34-35 by season's end (unless we light the world on fire)

If we can manage close to 40 next season, which would be about a .500 record, then it'll get us on the fringe (I know, McDavid, Eichel, yada yada..)

Third year would definitely see us make it as a lower seed. And then go from there.

[dieHARDflameZ]

I'm normally not too high on Glencross, but I have to say the last couple games he really seems to be starting to find his game. Hopefully the trend can continue.

What a fun team to watch! Giordano is having an incredible year, and Brodie has been outstanding. So many talented young guys coming along as well. There's definitely a lot to look forward to!

[CaptainCrunch]

Originally Posted by djsFlames

If we can focus on winning 5 more games each season, we'll be playoff bound in a relatively short amount of time. But I think that should be the long term goal of the team.

We've got 30 now, looking at 34-35 by season's end (unless we light the world on fire)

If we can manage close to 40 next season, which would be about a .500 record, then it'll get us on the fringe (I know, McDavid, Eichel, yada yada..)

Third year would definitely see us make it as a lower seed. And then go from there.

I'm still convinced that next year is going to be a very tough year as the Flames shed some vets like Camms in the off season so they can insert more youth.

Next year might be a step back before they start progressing forward.

[Street Pharmacist]

Originally Posted by CaptainCrunch

I'm still convinced that next year is going to be a very tough year as the Flames shed some vets like Camms in the off season so they can insert more youth.

Next year might be a step back before they start progressing forward.

Totally agree. There's also the rookie honeymoon phase and many sophomores have a more difficult road as they're not unknowns anymore. The newness and excitement wear off and their first bought of adversity hits. I think we'll have less points next year than this year

[pylon]

Originally Posted by AC

That's still Mike Toth, no matter how many times you try and claim that's from Mr. Show.

[djsFlames]

Originally Posted by CaptainCrunch

I'm still convinced that next year is going to be a very tough year as the Flames shed some vets like Camms in the off season so they can insert more youth.

Next year might be a step back before they start progressing forward.

Very possible. But there's also the chance that guys like Cammy re-sign, and they carry over that strong effort and momentum. But like you, I somehow just don't believe it'll be the case (as that would be almost too perfect).

Like with young players, it's very possible we see a sophomore slump with this young rebuilding team.

The only thing is I don't see guys like Giordano, Backlund and Hudler losing a step, as they're developed players who've visibly stepped up their games to new levels and have embraced leadership roles in their respective positions. And with them leading by example, I don't see why the youngsters wouldn't feed off that again next year. But again, it would be just too perfect if that were to be the case, so to expect that would be foolish. Perhaps like the players, I've just bought into this team and what it's doing.

[Young-Sneezy]

Originally Posted by calumniate

Eric Francis being positive is the most surprising thing to me. He's much more likeable this way. Jeez, who's next? Moon??

I just assume he's being sarcastic or something.

obligatory gif:

Flames Win -

[Travis Munroe]

I knew I was going to anyway however tonight was enough for me to click that renew button for seasons. I am a impatient person when it comes to rebuilds however this might be one of the most exciting rebuild teams of recent memory. Sure Pit had it good with Syd and Chi with there duo however we are building on dedication and heart vs scooping up #1 picks!
Its easy to point out weaker players and want them gone however im starting to feel that what some players lack on the ice is made up for in the room. There is no reason we should be doing as well as we are yet they continue to give it their all and are rewarded for their efforts. When we lose, it is still a close and entertaining game!

(yes I know I said "we" as a none flame and some posters hate it - I couldnt help myself)

[FireGilbert]

Is there any reason why Lehtonen is the third star on NHL.com ahead of Ramo? My only thought is that someone got their Karis mixed up.

Stopping 33 of 34 shots plus 3 in the shootout against the Sharks >> Stopping 32 of 33 shots against the Jets.

[formulate]

Originally Posted by FireGilbert

Is there any reason why Lehtonen is the third star on NHL.com ahead of Ramo? My only thought is that someone got their Karis mixed up.

Stopping 33 of 34 shots plus 3 in the shootout against the Sharks >> Stopping 32 of 33 shots against the Jets.

I can understand it based on it being a high-pressure game for the Stars in terms of their fight for the playoffs. Love how well Ramo has been playing (before and after the injury), I'm definitely not nervous with him in the net, and he stole this game for sure. So hard to compete with a team like the Sharks; big, fast, strong, skilled. The guys did an admirable job.

EDIT: Ramo was the third star on Yahoo Sports, if that's any consolation...

[Resolute 14]

Originally Posted by Phanuthier

I didn't get to see the game but I was listening on Sharks radio (headed up to the city, long drive)...... if you guy are worried about the Flames not getting enough respect, they got a ton of respect from Sharks radio. From the start of the game, major talk about how the Flames don't give up, lots of speed, lots of youth, lots of energy, dangerous etc...... nice to hear from the other side how much respect the Flames have. I too wasn't a big fan of Bob Hartley at first, but he's got me sold - this is my favorite team since probably 2008. I really want that top 3 pick, but how can you not love this team right now? Feels great being a Flames fan right now despite the standings.

Whenever I'm watching a Centre Ice broadcast from a team we are playing soon, they usually say the same thing about the Flames when they go into their upcoming schedule - we're a team that plays hard and doesn't take any night off. The local broadcasts around the league have certainly caught on to the Flames reputation.

[Resolute 14]

Originally Posted by FireGilbert

Is there any reason why Lehtonen is the third star on NHL.com ahead of Ramo? My only thought is that someone got their Karis mixed up.

Stopping 33 of 34 shots plus 3 in the shootout against the Sharks >> Stopping 32 of 33 shots against the Jets.

Our game ended just after the eastern media's bed time.

[Igster]

Originally Posted by puckluck2

The highlight of the night for me was how Bouma blocked a shot. On the bench.

My highlight was the shot of McGratton patting him on the head for blocking the shot on the bench. This group just seems to love playing together. Great teammates and character guys.

[Enoch Root]

Originally Posted by CaptainCrunch

I'm still convinced that next year is going to be a very tough year as the Flames shed some vets like Camms in the off season so they can insert more youth.

Next year might be a step back before they start progressing forward.

Originally Posted by Street Pharmacist

Totally agree. There's also the rookie honeymoon phase and many sophomores have a more difficult road as they're not unknowns anymore. The newness and excitement wear off and their first bought of adversity hits. I think we'll have less points next year than this year

I completely agree with these posts. And I won't be the slightest bit upset if it happens - as long as the work ethic remains.