When you think of the Calgary Flames, what comes to your mind? I know what folks outside of Calgary are saying—most people view us as a rebuilding team that’s just trying to tank. And honestly, when you look at it on paper, that’s pretty much what it seems like.
What do I see? Yes, we are a rebuilding franchise and not expecting too much for this season. I admit that I will not see the Stanley Cup in the near future. There’s something kind of refreshing about this situation for the Flames that we haven’t seen in years.
I have not heard any complaints about being in the dressing room. These young kids are buying what Mr. Huska is selling. What makes the system work is that the vets are his top salesmen. Guys like Huberdeau, Coleman, Weegar, Kadri, and Backlund, to name a few, believe in this team. I will take this further: Huberdeau is playing his best season with the Calgary Flames.
Johnathon Huberdeau is teaming up with Mantha, and I’ve got to say, have they found a center in Martin Pospisil? Martin has been very impressive this season; he is using his physical play to his advantage and showing off more offensive skills than I expected.
Finally, how about Mr. Andersson? Rasmus is showing us that he belongs with the big boys. Seeing him perform like this is impressive, especially with all the trade rumors swirling around. I love how he plays—his puck-carrying skills are top-notch, and his passing is seriously underrated. He’s got great vision on the powerplay!
I am not naive enough to think the Flames are Stanley Cup contenders, but I can see that a happy locker room goes a long way to improving the team.
Randy
