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Is The Youth Movement Upon Us?

November 11, 2011, 4:32 PM ET [ Comments]
Shaune Vetter
Calgary Flames Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
It's been a long time since the Flames have truly had any young players that made a big impact. Dion Phaneuf was the exception to the rule when he debuted after the lockout, but besides him, you have to go back to the 90's and the "Young Guns" to find any fresh-faced youths in Flame's red who contributed in any significant way.

For much of that time, the fans have criticized that direction the organization followed and often bemoaned the fact that the Flames never seemed to be able to bring in young talent that could make a difference. It was often thought that "new" blood could energize the team and put the spring back in the step of veterans who were sometimes looked at as becoming to complacent with no-one nipping at their heels to take their roster spots.

In the last two days, the organization seems to have revamped its philosophy on young players. Sure, they always claimed that the roster spots were available to players who proved they could take them, but the general consensus was that the vet's weren't going anywhere. Right now it looks like they're finally serious about bringing in some new faces.

Niklas Hagman is on waivers, Anton Babchuk is on the IR as is Brendan Morrison. Called up to fill in roster spots are Paul Byron and last year's training camp sensation TJ Brodie who certainly make the team younger, and will hopefully provide some spark. Certainly the expected return of Mikael Backlund to the lineup should add a lot as he was expected to be the #1 centre coming into the season.

If Matt Stajan doesn't play centre tonight. The Flames will potentially be sporting 3 pivots whose combined age is just 64. With Byron and Backlund both 22 years old and Roman Horak at just 20, the Flames could be icing the youngest 3 centres they've ever had on the roster at one time. That's a youth movement for you!

If nothing else, the younger lineup should provide the team will an energy boost that it's been needing on some nights this season. Last game against the Wild, the Flames actually played a good, inspired game but were stonewalled by some great goaltending and, to be honest, a lack of creativity. After all, saves are easier to make if the shots are predictable and unfortunately most of the Flames chances were pretty straight forward shots (The Heatley powerplay goal on the other hand... But I digress).

All of the Flames young centres have displayed offensive flair. If they can bring some energy and incorporate their natural offensive abilities into their games, this youth movement could be just what the doctor ordered.

Have a great day!

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