Reblogged from Flamestr's Thoughts
Okay, it is time for me to make a fool of myself. Yes, time for me to put on my imaginary Calgary GM hat and pretend to know what I am doing. If I were a Flames GM, I would want a top-six forward. But picking at number 26 makes it difficult to achieve that goal.
So the Flames have to find a diamond in the rough. The Flames would love to draft Brett Leason, but I have it on good authority he won't be there. The Islanders are in dire need of a power forward, so I am sure Brett will be gone before the Flames' first pick.
So eliminating Leason, what players might still be available?
27. Connor McMichael, Forward/Centre/Wing
Connor is a versatile forward who can play centre and wing. He can be used in all aspects of the game. Connor has great instincts, great hands and a terrific shot. Connor has some nifty moves and is capable of making a play out of nothing. The Flames like their forwards to play more than one position and will love his versatility.
88. Nando Eggenberger, Wing
Eggenberger is a big, strong winger. The Flames need to get bigger up front. Nando is not the most skilled forward, but he could develop into a solid third line winger willing get his hands dirty.
Here are my other picks without explanation:
116 William Constantinou - defence
150 Mattias Norlinder - defence
214 Brayden Guy - right winger
Thursday, June 20, 2019
Wednesday, June 19, 2019
NHL Draft Predictions
It is like Christmas for an NHL Scout this time of year. This is where they earn their money. What makes this time of year so amazing it is how one player can be rated so high by one team and so low by another. There are so many things to consider when a team drafts a player. For instance, you would not think that a team interview could make or break an opportunity for the player. But teams take this seriously. Players have a lot of questions to answer.
This is where player IQ comes into effect. It is so tricky to predict the order of the draft. I have seen a player drop from 4 to number 10.
But let's take a shot at this anyway, shall we?
1. New Jersey Devils
Jack Hughes, Centre
Jack is a slick, playmaking centre. He can think on the fly, making plays out of nothing. Jack makes everyone around him better. He is willing to do what it takes to win. He passes with deadly accuracy, resulting in scoring chances and getting the puck out of danger. He is an offensive dynamo who can change a game in an instant. A future linemate to Hall, if he is still there.
2. New York Rangers
Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing
Kappo is the player is closest to playing in the NHL right now. Kaapo is very strong and is hard to take off the puck. He has a dangerous slap shot and an even more scary snapshot. He's more of a complete player than most of the kids. He is quite capable in his zone. I love Kappo's hockey smarts. He has played with men, which makes him stronger. He takes a hit without crumbling. He will not stand down in the middle of the net.
3. Chicago Black Hawks
Alex Turcotte, Centre
The Wings are in dire need of a prominent young centre with some offensive touch. Enter Alex Turcotte, precisely what the doctor ordered. He is a quick-skating forward who can change directions on the spur of the moment. He is a smart centre with good hands. Steady on the puck. A future Kevin Hays with a little more scoring power. The Wings would be very lucky to get him.
4. Colorado Avalanche
Dylan Cozens, Centre/Right Wing
I personally like Dylan more than Alex, but the experts say I am wrong.
Dylan has a quick release on his shot. More impressive is his intensity at getting the puck and hanging on to it. He has some *blank* and vinegar (family site). He has a chip on his shoulder and uses it to his advantage in advancing the puck. He is a smart player who handles all of his teammates. Dylan has a quick release, and his nasty play gets under the skin of the opposing team. More importantly, he has all the ability offensively to turn him into a Tasmanian devil with the ability to score.
5. LA Kings
Bowen Byram, Defenceman
Bowen is a highly-touted defenceman. He will make the perfect partner for Drew Doughty, who could mould him into a future top pairing defenceman. Bryram has all the ability in offensive skill if he can upgrade his defensive play, he will be a player to watch in the future.
6. Detroit Red Wings
Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing
The Wings can be patient. They are in the middle of a rebuild. Waiting two years should not bother them too much. Vasili is a future power forward who plays one way. Strong like an ox, with a fantastic shot, he can score anytime. He is a smart big player who uses his size to his advantage. He can cause havoc in the offensive zone because nobody can take him off the puck. Vasili takes the shortest route to success. A pure sniper who will be the perfect top 6 forward the Hawks so desperately need.
7. Buffalo Sabres
Kirby Dach, Centre/Right Wing
Kirby is a big skilled player, who plays with the best of them. He has all of the ability to be a great offensive player. Kirby thinks offensively first. He knows how to score. For a man his size, he has surprisingly soft hands. His versatility is a massive advantage for the Sabres, who can use him at wing or centre.
8. Edmonton Oilers
Matthew Boldy, Right Wing/Left Wing
Matthew has a hockey IQ that always puts him in the right spot at the right time. He has terrific skill with his feet. He will get the defence to look at the puck and intimidate dmen with his skill. The Oilers love his versatility, of playing both wings. I was told the Oilers want to win now. Unfortunately, there is is no sure thing in this draft, outside the top two picks.
9. Anaheim Ducks
Trevor Zegras, Centre
The Ducks are in dire need of a centre. Their lack of offence is well-known and has to improve for them to be a contender. Trevor is a dangerously smart centre who fits the bill. Zegras is an elite offensive talent who can think with his feet. Elite Prospects has him as a centre and winger, which increases his value even more. The Ducks are in dire need of an offensive centre. Trevor fits the bill.
10. Vancouver Canucks
Peyton Krebs, Forward
Offensive dynamo is an excellent description of Peyton. He is a highly-skilled forward who can also play centre. He has overcome his size with aggressive play. Krebs has been a point forward per game, has a quick release, and good footwork. He can get dmen all turned around with his moves. Plays in all aspects of his game. He will to play the corners and get his nose dirty.
11. Philadelphia Flyers
Cole Caufield, Forward
Cole is a dynamic forward who can score with the best of them. What makes Cole so explosive is his speed. He has defence on their heels; they are too busy looking for the puck, he just goes around them. Caulfield is a fantastic forward with speed to burn. Flyers could have a steal in the draft.
12. Minnesota Wild
Philip Broberg, Defenceman
Phillip is a reliable defender who plays his position well. Has some offensive ability to go with his defensive awareness. Steady, reliable nasty dman who will keep players honest. Has a puck knowledge good puck moving dman.
13. Florida Panthers
Spencer Knight, Goalie
Spencer is one of the best prospect goalies that have come up in a long time. He covers the angles well and follows the puck. His puck control is fantastic — a great future goalie.
14. Arizona Coyotes
Arthur Kaliyev, Forward
Arthur is an offensive forward who has excellent shot release. Arthur has a ton of potential of being a superstar. He can make something out of nothing; he is capable of winning a game by himself. Kaliyev will help the Coyotes in offensive categories for years to come.
15. Montreal Canadians
Raphaël Lavoie, Centre/Right Wing
Raphael Is big and talented and could be the power forward the Habs need. His biggest asset his long reach to get around the defencemen. Raphael has a sneaky snapshot. He is a very dangerous forward who uses his size to advantage. He has been an explosive force in the Quebec Junior League.
16. Colorado Avalanche
Victor Söderström, Defenceman
Victor is steady, reliable puck-moving defenceman. A smooth skater who very good at transaction game. Victor is a great passer, an asset who can get the puck out of the defensive zone to the forwards. He has an above-average shot and the potential of being top pairing defencemen.
17. Las Vegas Golden Knights
Alexander Newhook, Centre
Alexander is a terrific centre who has plenty of offensive skill. He is a smooth fast-skating centre with great hands. Alexander has a fantastic accurate shot which can often fool goalies. He is consistently heading to the net. Newhook has his nose to the grindstone. He is a gifted centre determined to get the job done.
18. Dallas Stars
Ryan Suzuki, Centre
Ryan is a smooth, sneaky centreman. He has a great release with quick hands. His ability to get to the where he is going faster gives him better chances to score. Ryan has a ton of potential of being an explosive centerman, and his hockey knowledge often puts him several plays ahead.
19. Ottawa Senators
Moritz Seider, Defenceman
Moritz has tremendous hockey IQ. He is a very smart defenceman who rarely gets out of place. He does not shy away from roughness. He takes the body first and asks question later — a no-nonsense defender who has a chip on his shoulder — a leader by example.
20. Winnipeg Jets
Cam York, Defenceman
York is a strong two-way defender who is always thinking of where he is supposed to be. York will get his teammates out of trouble. He is a very reliable defenceman. Cam will be a steady dman who makes up for mistakes with his speed. He may have to overcome a size issue in the NHL.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins
Thomas Harley, Defenceman
Thomas, an offensive juggernaut powerplay specialist, will boost the Pens' powerplay. He is a terrific puck-moving defenceman who can be used in all aspects of the game. He was used in the penalty kill as well as the powerplay. HIs defensive play does not match his offensive play, but he has true potential. He might be a project, but he could be a diamond in the rough.
22. Los Angeles Kings
Philip Tomasino, Right Wing
Philip is a fast tempo player; his speed will catch the defence off-guard. Philip has an outstanding snapshot that will hit the mark. The aggressive checker will get to loose pucks and will win puck battles. He has lots of intensity will get into payers head.
23. New York Islanders
Brett Leason, Forward
The New York Islanders are in dire need of a power forward. Brett fills this need. He will eat you up and spit you up; a man's man, as they say. He may not score 40 goals, but he will stick up for the smaller players. He will add toughness to the Islanders; line-up. He may be a 60 point guy. If the Isles don't pick him, the Flames will.
24. Nashville Predators
Matthew Robertson, Defenceman
Matthew Robertson's greatest asset is his cannon from the point. He will be a future powerplay quarterback. He is a strong skater who will use his speed to bail his teammates out of trouble. Robertson will use his size to play to his advantage. He is a great defender.
25. Washington Capitals
Samuel Poulin
Samuel is a power forward in the making, still young in between the ears. The Capitals are going to have to be patient with Samuel. He is very strong on his feet, a power forward in the offensive zone. Samuel has good speed with a great snapshot. He will get his share of goals going to the front of the net. The Capitals will have a good one for the future.
26. Calgary Flames
Connor McMichael, Centre/Left Wing
Connor is a versatile forward who can play centre and wing. He can be used in all aspects of the game. Connor has great instincts with a terrific shot and great hands. Connor has some nifty moves and is capable of making a play out of nothing. The Flames like their forwards to play more than one position, and they will love his versatility.
27. Tampa Bay Lightning
Alex Vlasic, Defenceman
Alex strongest asset is he is cool under pressure. He never panics. He keeps the puck moving. A great passer who will get the puck out of the zone. Overall, Alex has excellent skills. He may be a little raw, but his attitude and skills will come to the front. A solid defender.
28. Carolina Panthers
Yegor Afanasyev, Forward
Yegor is the Russian forward who can score. He is a future power forward who can use his size to his advantage. He has a great shot with soft hands. He needs to overcome his weakness in his speed. If he can overcome that, he will develop into a solid forward in years to come.
29. Anaheim Ducks
Ville Heinola, Defenceman
Ville's biggest weakness is his size, but he has shown already he is capable of overcoming that obstacle. Ville already has experience playing in the pro league in Finland. He will mature more in the NHL. He is a puck-moving defenceman who has speed and the ability to move the puck. He plays a great transaction game, goes with the flow, and is capable of picking up the pace. The Ducks will have a good one if they are patient with him.
30. Buffalo Sabres
Bobby Brink, Right Wing/Left Wing
Bobby Brink is a smallish forward who can play both wings. He is one not to be taken lightly and has been proving the doubters wrong. A determined winger who will get nasty to get the job done. He is just what the doctor ordered as far as the Sabres are concerned.
31. Boston Bruins
Jakob Pelletier, Centre
Jakob is a high-end centre who is known for vision. He is a skilled centre who is an excellent passer. Jakob will never give up. He fights for every inch he gets. His hockey IQ is through the roof. He will outsmart the defence who are often left looking for their jockstraps when skates by him. He is a perfect example of good things coming in small packages.
This is where player IQ comes into effect. It is so tricky to predict the order of the draft. I have seen a player drop from 4 to number 10.
But let's take a shot at this anyway, shall we?
1. New Jersey Devils
Jack Hughes, Centre
Jack is a slick, playmaking centre. He can think on the fly, making plays out of nothing. Jack makes everyone around him better. He is willing to do what it takes to win. He passes with deadly accuracy, resulting in scoring chances and getting the puck out of danger. He is an offensive dynamo who can change a game in an instant. A future linemate to Hall, if he is still there.
2. New York Rangers
Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing
Kappo is the player is closest to playing in the NHL right now. Kaapo is very strong and is hard to take off the puck. He has a dangerous slap shot and an even more scary snapshot. He's more of a complete player than most of the kids. He is quite capable in his zone. I love Kappo's hockey smarts. He has played with men, which makes him stronger. He takes a hit without crumbling. He will not stand down in the middle of the net.
3. Chicago Black Hawks
Alex Turcotte, Centre
The Wings are in dire need of a prominent young centre with some offensive touch. Enter Alex Turcotte, precisely what the doctor ordered. He is a quick-skating forward who can change directions on the spur of the moment. He is a smart centre with good hands. Steady on the puck. A future Kevin Hays with a little more scoring power. The Wings would be very lucky to get him.
4. Colorado Avalanche
Dylan Cozens, Centre/Right Wing
I personally like Dylan more than Alex, but the experts say I am wrong.
Dylan has a quick release on his shot. More impressive is his intensity at getting the puck and hanging on to it. He has some *blank* and vinegar (family site). He has a chip on his shoulder and uses it to his advantage in advancing the puck. He is a smart player who handles all of his teammates. Dylan has a quick release, and his nasty play gets under the skin of the opposing team. More importantly, he has all the ability offensively to turn him into a Tasmanian devil with the ability to score.
5. LA Kings
Bowen Byram, Defenceman
Bowen is a highly-touted defenceman. He will make the perfect partner for Drew Doughty, who could mould him into a future top pairing defenceman. Bryram has all the ability in offensive skill if he can upgrade his defensive play, he will be a player to watch in the future.
6. Detroit Red Wings
Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing
The Wings can be patient. They are in the middle of a rebuild. Waiting two years should not bother them too much. Vasili is a future power forward who plays one way. Strong like an ox, with a fantastic shot, he can score anytime. He is a smart big player who uses his size to his advantage. He can cause havoc in the offensive zone because nobody can take him off the puck. Vasili takes the shortest route to success. A pure sniper who will be the perfect top 6 forward the Hawks so desperately need.
7. Buffalo Sabres
Kirby Dach, Centre/Right Wing
Kirby is a big skilled player, who plays with the best of them. He has all of the ability to be a great offensive player. Kirby thinks offensively first. He knows how to score. For a man his size, he has surprisingly soft hands. His versatility is a massive advantage for the Sabres, who can use him at wing or centre.
8. Edmonton Oilers
Matthew Boldy, Right Wing/Left Wing
Matthew has a hockey IQ that always puts him in the right spot at the right time. He has terrific skill with his feet. He will get the defence to look at the puck and intimidate dmen with his skill. The Oilers love his versatility, of playing both wings. I was told the Oilers want to win now. Unfortunately, there is is no sure thing in this draft, outside the top two picks.
9. Anaheim Ducks
Trevor Zegras, Centre
The Ducks are in dire need of a centre. Their lack of offence is well-known and has to improve for them to be a contender. Trevor is a dangerously smart centre who fits the bill. Zegras is an elite offensive talent who can think with his feet. Elite Prospects has him as a centre and winger, which increases his value even more. The Ducks are in dire need of an offensive centre. Trevor fits the bill.
10. Vancouver Canucks
Peyton Krebs, Forward
Offensive dynamo is an excellent description of Peyton. He is a highly-skilled forward who can also play centre. He has overcome his size with aggressive play. Krebs has been a point forward per game, has a quick release, and good footwork. He can get dmen all turned around with his moves. Plays in all aspects of his game. He will to play the corners and get his nose dirty.
11. Philadelphia Flyers
Cole Caufield, Forward
Cole is a dynamic forward who can score with the best of them. What makes Cole so explosive is his speed. He has defence on their heels; they are too busy looking for the puck, he just goes around them. Caulfield is a fantastic forward with speed to burn. Flyers could have a steal in the draft.
12. Minnesota Wild
Philip Broberg, Defenceman
Phillip is a reliable defender who plays his position well. Has some offensive ability to go with his defensive awareness. Steady, reliable nasty dman who will keep players honest. Has a puck knowledge good puck moving dman.
13. Florida Panthers
Spencer Knight, Goalie
Spencer is one of the best prospect goalies that have come up in a long time. He covers the angles well and follows the puck. His puck control is fantastic — a great future goalie.
14. Arizona Coyotes
Arthur Kaliyev, Forward
Arthur is an offensive forward who has excellent shot release. Arthur has a ton of potential of being a superstar. He can make something out of nothing; he is capable of winning a game by himself. Kaliyev will help the Coyotes in offensive categories for years to come.
15. Montreal Canadians
Raphaël Lavoie, Centre/Right Wing
Raphael Is big and talented and could be the power forward the Habs need. His biggest asset his long reach to get around the defencemen. Raphael has a sneaky snapshot. He is a very dangerous forward who uses his size to advantage. He has been an explosive force in the Quebec Junior League.
16. Colorado Avalanche
Victor Söderström, Defenceman
Victor is steady, reliable puck-moving defenceman. A smooth skater who very good at transaction game. Victor is a great passer, an asset who can get the puck out of the defensive zone to the forwards. He has an above-average shot and the potential of being top pairing defencemen.
17. Las Vegas Golden Knights
Alexander Newhook, Centre
Alexander is a terrific centre who has plenty of offensive skill. He is a smooth fast-skating centre with great hands. Alexander has a fantastic accurate shot which can often fool goalies. He is consistently heading to the net. Newhook has his nose to the grindstone. He is a gifted centre determined to get the job done.
18. Dallas Stars
Ryan Suzuki, Centre
Ryan is a smooth, sneaky centreman. He has a great release with quick hands. His ability to get to the where he is going faster gives him better chances to score. Ryan has a ton of potential of being an explosive centerman, and his hockey knowledge often puts him several plays ahead.
19. Ottawa Senators
Moritz Seider, Defenceman
Moritz has tremendous hockey IQ. He is a very smart defenceman who rarely gets out of place. He does not shy away from roughness. He takes the body first and asks question later — a no-nonsense defender who has a chip on his shoulder — a leader by example.
20. Winnipeg Jets
Cam York, Defenceman
York is a strong two-way defender who is always thinking of where he is supposed to be. York will get his teammates out of trouble. He is a very reliable defenceman. Cam will be a steady dman who makes up for mistakes with his speed. He may have to overcome a size issue in the NHL.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins
Thomas Harley, Defenceman
Thomas, an offensive juggernaut powerplay specialist, will boost the Pens' powerplay. He is a terrific puck-moving defenceman who can be used in all aspects of the game. He was used in the penalty kill as well as the powerplay. HIs defensive play does not match his offensive play, but he has true potential. He might be a project, but he could be a diamond in the rough.
22. Los Angeles Kings
Philip Tomasino, Right Wing
Philip is a fast tempo player; his speed will catch the defence off-guard. Philip has an outstanding snapshot that will hit the mark. The aggressive checker will get to loose pucks and will win puck battles. He has lots of intensity will get into payers head.
23. New York Islanders
Brett Leason, Forward
The New York Islanders are in dire need of a power forward. Brett fills this need. He will eat you up and spit you up; a man's man, as they say. He may not score 40 goals, but he will stick up for the smaller players. He will add toughness to the Islanders; line-up. He may be a 60 point guy. If the Isles don't pick him, the Flames will.
24. Nashville Predators
Matthew Robertson, Defenceman
Matthew Robertson's greatest asset is his cannon from the point. He will be a future powerplay quarterback. He is a strong skater who will use his speed to bail his teammates out of trouble. Robertson will use his size to play to his advantage. He is a great defender.
25. Washington Capitals
Samuel Poulin
Samuel is a power forward in the making, still young in between the ears. The Capitals are going to have to be patient with Samuel. He is very strong on his feet, a power forward in the offensive zone. Samuel has good speed with a great snapshot. He will get his share of goals going to the front of the net. The Capitals will have a good one for the future.
26. Calgary Flames
Connor McMichael, Centre/Left Wing
Connor is a versatile forward who can play centre and wing. He can be used in all aspects of the game. Connor has great instincts with a terrific shot and great hands. Connor has some nifty moves and is capable of making a play out of nothing. The Flames like their forwards to play more than one position, and they will love his versatility.
27. Tampa Bay Lightning
Alex Vlasic, Defenceman
Alex strongest asset is he is cool under pressure. He never panics. He keeps the puck moving. A great passer who will get the puck out of the zone. Overall, Alex has excellent skills. He may be a little raw, but his attitude and skills will come to the front. A solid defender.
28. Carolina Panthers
Yegor Afanasyev, Forward
Yegor is the Russian forward who can score. He is a future power forward who can use his size to his advantage. He has a great shot with soft hands. He needs to overcome his weakness in his speed. If he can overcome that, he will develop into a solid forward in years to come.
29. Anaheim Ducks
Ville Heinola, Defenceman
Ville's biggest weakness is his size, but he has shown already he is capable of overcoming that obstacle. Ville already has experience playing in the pro league in Finland. He will mature more in the NHL. He is a puck-moving defenceman who has speed and the ability to move the puck. He plays a great transaction game, goes with the flow, and is capable of picking up the pace. The Ducks will have a good one if they are patient with him.
30. Buffalo Sabres
Bobby Brink, Right Wing/Left Wing
Bobby Brink is a smallish forward who can play both wings. He is one not to be taken lightly and has been proving the doubters wrong. A determined winger who will get nasty to get the job done. He is just what the doctor ordered as far as the Sabres are concerned.
31. Boston Bruins
Jakob Pelletier, Centre
Jakob is a high-end centre who is known for vision. He is a skilled centre who is an excellent passer. Jakob will never give up. He fights for every inch he gets. His hockey IQ is through the roof. He will outsmart the defence who are often left looking for their jockstraps when skates by him. He is a perfect example of good things coming in small packages.
Friday, February 22, 2019
Dead-Line: The Cup or Bust
Closing in on the NHL trade deadline day, the Calgary Flames have been linked to every offensive forward available. It is common knowledge that the Flames would love to add one more forward and a number four or five defencemen. The main problem is the prices the sellers want. So far, the Flames have been balking at the prices.
The Flames have an extensive list, but you can take one off with the Duchene trade. But the Flames are seriously trying to build up this team. The management feels they are very close to being a Cup contender.
Some of the top players the Flames may be going after:
Mark Stone
The Flames are strong contenders. Stone is a sniper who can do wonders with a powerplay. He is a very good one-timer who would work well with Tkachuk. He is excellent defensively and will work for his goals. He is also a great finisher and probably the best all-around player available.
Chris Kreider
Chris is a physical forward who can mix it up with the best of them. He is not as gifted as Stone. He is number two winger with a touch of grit and reminds me of an older Tkachuck. He would add some offence to the team and add some to the defensive game. He needs a centre who will give him the puck. But the Rangers want your firstborn, and then some.
Mats Zuccarello
Zuccarello is a fast skater with some playmaking skills. More than likely, he is Calgary's number one target. He may not be the best player, but he will be the cheapest of the players available at the deadline. He would fit nicely in with Janko and Bennett, with Neal being week-to-week. Zuccarello may be more open to re-signing than anyone else on the market.
Wayne Simmonds
Simmonds is a mean power forward. He is a powerplay specialist who can score the odd five-on-five goals. Again, he would beef up the Flames physically and could very well be put on the front line to help Johnny. But I am not sure the Flames are interested in a rental. They have shown more interest in testing the free agent market.
The Flames are also looking for a left-handed dman maybe to help out with the third pairing, which tells me they don't have confidence in Stone. Look for the Flames to dangle him as trade bait if he can get healthy. I have not heard who the Flames are putting on the market. I have heard that talks between the Flames and the Isles surrounding Bennett ended quickly. I am not sure they would put Janko on the block either.
The Flames are shopping trying to get a bargain at Tiffany's, which could be pretty tricky.
The Flames have an extensive list, but you can take one off with the Duchene trade. But the Flames are seriously trying to build up this team. The management feels they are very close to being a Cup contender.
Some of the top players the Flames may be going after:
Mark Stone
The Flames are strong contenders. Stone is a sniper who can do wonders with a powerplay. He is a very good one-timer who would work well with Tkachuk. He is excellent defensively and will work for his goals. He is also a great finisher and probably the best all-around player available.
Chris Kreider
Chris is a physical forward who can mix it up with the best of them. He is not as gifted as Stone. He is number two winger with a touch of grit and reminds me of an older Tkachuck. He would add some offence to the team and add some to the defensive game. He needs a centre who will give him the puck. But the Rangers want your firstborn, and then some.
Mats Zuccarello
Zuccarello is a fast skater with some playmaking skills. More than likely, he is Calgary's number one target. He may not be the best player, but he will be the cheapest of the players available at the deadline. He would fit nicely in with Janko and Bennett, with Neal being week-to-week. Zuccarello may be more open to re-signing than anyone else on the market.
Wayne Simmonds
Simmonds is a mean power forward. He is a powerplay specialist who can score the odd five-on-five goals. Again, he would beef up the Flames physically and could very well be put on the front line to help Johnny. But I am not sure the Flames are interested in a rental. They have shown more interest in testing the free agent market.
The Flames are also looking for a left-handed dman maybe to help out with the third pairing, which tells me they don't have confidence in Stone. Look for the Flames to dangle him as trade bait if he can get healthy. I have not heard who the Flames are putting on the market. I have heard that talks between the Flames and the Isles surrounding Bennett ended quickly. I am not sure they would put Janko on the block either.
The Flames are shopping trying to get a bargain at Tiffany's, which could be pretty tricky.
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
Flames: What to do?
Buckle up, fans, the Calgary Flames are about to be tested with the big boys. The offence has been successful, and here is a novel idea: defence, stop making bonehead mistakes. The forwards have to commit to helping in their own zone. Too many times this season, the Flames have gone into a game just to add onto their stats. The old saying holds: defence will win cups.
The offence is in high gear, yet the Flames are linked to every forward in the League, from the Devils' Marcus Johansson to Wade Simmons from Philly. Add the Rangers' too many players to be mentioned. The Flames have made it known they are open for business. Their main priority is bringing in a vet to help in their own zone and add the odd offensive goal. Their next priority is bringing in a number four or five dman to help with the kids. There is little hope in bringing in a goalie under contract. But the problem with trying to trade Smith is that they cannot find a team willing to take that contract on. Peters has told the media over and over that the Flames can improve. They must improve in playing a full 60 minutes. They must improve their defences lapses. They have to bring in the mentality of a winner.
There are still a few options on the farm. Curtis Lazar has shown fantastic leadership. He feels he is ready and has shown the characteristics of a team player. He has put off theme mentality and replaced it with team mentality. The Flames would love to add some depth to the farm. They may be willing to take a chance on Hosang. The Flames have mentioned their number one pick is in play. The prospects Dillon Dube and Spencer Foo could be trade bait. How far they will go is anyone's guess, but they feel they can take up the torch. Or should I say, Lord Stanley's Cup?
The offence is in high gear, yet the Flames are linked to every forward in the League, from the Devils' Marcus Johansson to Wade Simmons from Philly. Add the Rangers' too many players to be mentioned. The Flames have made it known they are open for business. Their main priority is bringing in a vet to help in their own zone and add the odd offensive goal. Their next priority is bringing in a number four or five dman to help with the kids. There is little hope in bringing in a goalie under contract. But the problem with trying to trade Smith is that they cannot find a team willing to take that contract on. Peters has told the media over and over that the Flames can improve. They must improve in playing a full 60 minutes. They must improve their defences lapses. They have to bring in the mentality of a winner.
There are still a few options on the farm. Curtis Lazar has shown fantastic leadership. He feels he is ready and has shown the characteristics of a team player. He has put off theme mentality and replaced it with team mentality. The Flames would love to add some depth to the farm. They may be willing to take a chance on Hosang. The Flames have mentioned their number one pick is in play. The prospects Dillon Dube and Spencer Foo could be trade bait. How far they will go is anyone's guess, but they feel they can take up the torch. Or should I say, Lord Stanley's Cup?
Thursday, January 10, 2019
The Flames are Busy Beavers
The Flames are flying and buzzing, forcing the opposition to make mistakes. They are led by one of the best lines in the League: Monahan, Longholm, and some guy named Gaudreau. I hear Gaudreau is supposed to be pretty good! Their second line seems to be kicking butt with Frolik, Backlund, and Tkachuck, known as the 3M line.
The defence is still weak at times, mostly because the Flames are bringing the 1980s back into the NHL. Gio is really putting up offensive numbers I never saw coming. Every year, I think he is going to slow down, but instead, he ups his performance. He is Superman on the defence back there. I am getting excited with the real Hammer coming back with robust play and monster hits.
The scary thing is this team can still improve their play. They still have not played a full 60 minutes. Yes, this is a big concern. Despite my friends telling me "just be happy, they are winning," I am here to tell you that sooner or later, it is going to catch up with them. The Knights and Sharks are playing full out, forcing the Flames to win on a regular basis or they will make the Flames eat their dust.
The defence's lapses have to slow down. They are forcing the Flames to score at least four times a night. Most nights they are, but wouldn't it be nice to win without all that offence? Watching the Flames win is a lot of fun, but I wish we didn't have to see the bad defence to go with it.
This leads me to wonder what needs to be fixed. The Flames are very busy on the phones right now. Paul Kreischer, one of my contacts, says the Flames are one of the busiest teams in the league. They are building the momentum on getting a new arena built. Stone will be available after his blood clots are gone. Another source says the Flames are all in. No excuses, it is time to take the gloves off. People are going to know this team by the end of the season.
Watch for the Flames to pick up a goalie if they can find one. Is Smith the primary obstacle? What do you think they are going to do with him?
The defence is still weak at times, mostly because the Flames are bringing the 1980s back into the NHL. Gio is really putting up offensive numbers I never saw coming. Every year, I think he is going to slow down, but instead, he ups his performance. He is Superman on the defence back there. I am getting excited with the real Hammer coming back with robust play and monster hits.
The scary thing is this team can still improve their play. They still have not played a full 60 minutes. Yes, this is a big concern. Despite my friends telling me "just be happy, they are winning," I am here to tell you that sooner or later, it is going to catch up with them. The Knights and Sharks are playing full out, forcing the Flames to win on a regular basis or they will make the Flames eat their dust.
The defence's lapses have to slow down. They are forcing the Flames to score at least four times a night. Most nights they are, but wouldn't it be nice to win without all that offence? Watching the Flames win is a lot of fun, but I wish we didn't have to see the bad defence to go with it.
This leads me to wonder what needs to be fixed. The Flames are very busy on the phones right now. Paul Kreischer, one of my contacts, says the Flames are one of the busiest teams in the league. They are building the momentum on getting a new arena built. Stone will be available after his blood clots are gone. Another source says the Flames are all in. No excuses, it is time to take the gloves off. People are going to know this team by the end of the season.
Watch for the Flames to pick up a goalie if they can find one. Is Smith the primary obstacle? What do you think they are going to do with him?
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Are the Flames Top-of-West Worthy?
It has been a long time since the Flames have been in first place this late in the season. How have they gotten here? Do they deserve to be here? Right now, the Flames lead the conference with 40 points. The rest of the division is in inconsistent and the Flames have managed a winning streak.
Why first place?
The biggest reason is the hot first line — Johnny Gaudreau, Shawn Monahan, and of course, Elias Lindholm. Lindholm might be the best pickup of the year. He has developed into a strong right winger. Lindholm has 16 goals and 18 assists, totalling 34 points. He is averaging over a point per game. HIs greatest asset is his speed. He is forcing the issues. Teams are having trouble keeping up with him.
I can't remember the last time Flames had four players averaging over a point a game: Johnny Gaudreau, Shawn Monahan, the nasty Daniel Tkachuk, and Mark Giordano. Giordano is at exactly one point per game. It has been a long time since this kind of numbers on the Calgary Flames. The offensive style is working to perfection.
The main concern is outside the top five scoring is a little thin. This is where the Flames were hoping James Neal might be able to pop in some scoring. But so far, James's offence has dried up. HIs three goals and three assists make him a very expensive role player. Michael Backlund has chipped in with 17 points. We could use a few more from him.
Speaking of Backlund, he went down with what has to be a concussion in the Wild game. Janko is the obvious choice to step in short-term for Backlund. He has to take the ball and run with it. He has to step into the role of second line centre.
Mark Jankowski has to drastically improve his offensive number for the second line to advance. Four goals and six assists in 28 games is not good enough for his talent. He has the skill and potential to be so much more; this is an excellent opportunity for Mark to shine.
The defensive zone play has to improve; there are still too many giveaways in the defensive zone. The Flames have really missed rookie sensation Juuso Valimaki. He has been a defensive stalwart. He has maturity beyond his years and he has been outstanding in his own end. The Flames have to improve their defensive play. This is not all on the defence; the forwards have to show more hustle in their zone. The defence cannot do it all.
Another reason the Flames are playing better is that Mike Smith has arrived. Mike Smith has been steady and better of late, so the Flames have a two-headed monster for other teams to contend with. The only problem is that Mike is still giving up a bad goal in his starts when the offence is slowing. It is vital that Smith addresses that issue.
Rittich has to be the story this year as he continues to keep up his outstanding play between the pipes. He might not be the most positional goalie, but he gets the job done. It is key that the Flames play both goalies in order to have a rested goalie in the playoffs.
Why first place?
The biggest reason is the hot first line — Johnny Gaudreau, Shawn Monahan, and of course, Elias Lindholm. Lindholm might be the best pickup of the year. He has developed into a strong right winger. Lindholm has 16 goals and 18 assists, totalling 34 points. He is averaging over a point per game. HIs greatest asset is his speed. He is forcing the issues. Teams are having trouble keeping up with him.
I can't remember the last time Flames had four players averaging over a point a game: Johnny Gaudreau, Shawn Monahan, the nasty Daniel Tkachuk, and Mark Giordano. Giordano is at exactly one point per game. It has been a long time since this kind of numbers on the Calgary Flames. The offensive style is working to perfection.
The main concern is outside the top five scoring is a little thin. This is where the Flames were hoping James Neal might be able to pop in some scoring. But so far, James's offence has dried up. HIs three goals and three assists make him a very expensive role player. Michael Backlund has chipped in with 17 points. We could use a few more from him.
Speaking of Backlund, he went down with what has to be a concussion in the Wild game. Janko is the obvious choice to step in short-term for Backlund. He has to take the ball and run with it. He has to step into the role of second line centre.
Mark Jankowski has to drastically improve his offensive number for the second line to advance. Four goals and six assists in 28 games is not good enough for his talent. He has the skill and potential to be so much more; this is an excellent opportunity for Mark to shine.
The defensive zone play has to improve; there are still too many giveaways in the defensive zone. The Flames have really missed rookie sensation Juuso Valimaki. He has been a defensive stalwart. He has maturity beyond his years and he has been outstanding in his own end. The Flames have to improve their defensive play. This is not all on the defence; the forwards have to show more hustle in their zone. The defence cannot do it all.
Another reason the Flames are playing better is that Mike Smith has arrived. Mike Smith has been steady and better of late, so the Flames have a two-headed monster for other teams to contend with. The only problem is that Mike is still giving up a bad goal in his starts when the offence is slowing. It is vital that Smith addresses that issue.
Rittich has to be the story this year as he continues to keep up his outstanding play between the pipes. He might not be the most positional goalie, but he gets the job done. It is key that the Flames play both goalies in order to have a rested goalie in the playoffs.
Saturday, December 1, 2018
Amazing what a confident goalie can accomplish
The Flames are flying around scoring in buckets. They scored five goals in the first period in two games in a row, against the Knights and Jets. The Flames were really using their speed.
Gaudreau snapped out of his slump and is really flying in the recent three-game homestand in which the Flames went undefeated. The Flames have the confidence that they have a goalie who has their backs if they make a mistake in their defensive zone.
Monahan, Gaudreau, and Lindholm are hitting on all cylinders. The Flames have finally found their first line right-winger. They are playing with confidence like they never have before. Lindholm is a smart forward who is on the same page as Monahan. They each know precisely where the other is on the ice and are very responsible in their own zone.
Secondary Scoring
The second line might very well have the best player and the MVP of the Flames. Tkachuk is learning how to make things hard consistently. The second line has been a vital ingredient. All this because the Flames know if they make a mistake they know Rittich has their back.
Defence
The dmen are playing with more confidence. They are not skating on eggshells, they are not worrying about making mistakes, because they know Riitich has their back. It is amazing how not having to worry about making mistakes can help the defence.
Mr. Neal
Neal continues to struggle, but I see a light at the end of the tunnel. I have seen him making strides of late. He is getting involved and seems to be working well with Janko and Bennett. I still have confidence in his abilities.
Do not be too upset with the game against the Stars. Yes, the Flames lost, but they ran into a very hot goalie. Anton Khudobin was outstanding, nothing more than that. Move on, be happy the team was able to get the point.
Moving forward, this team has to continue to play a full 60 minutes. It is time for this team to make a move if they are serious. The Flames have the talent; it is the time to show the will.
Randy
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