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On Sunday afternoon the Calgary Flames extended their winning streak to four games, and point streak to six games, with a win over the Carolina Hurricanes.
A few notes on the game and their play of late:
1) I can't say enough about the play of Micheal Ferland since he took Troy Brouwer's spot on the top unit. Ferland has had no problem keeping up with his star linemates. He has used his size to win battles, retrieve pucks and he's caused a lot of havoc around the net. His speed has also caught some defenders by surprise and he's been shooting at a very good rate (he has at least three shots in three of his last four games).
Oh, and he's playing some defense, too.
In the off-season,
I wrote Ferland should score more goals this year. He is now on pace for 15 after tallying just six in his first 97 games.
2) Another game, another quality start from Brian Elliott. He stopped 34-35, including 32-32 at even-strength, and has allowed two goals or less in five of his last six games. I understand trading for some goaltending insurance if the price is reasonable -- better safe than sorry -- but I'd be comfortable going with Elliott in the playoffs, especially if the team around him continues to get better.
3) So far, so good with the Michael Stone experiment. He's finished with a positive shot attempt differential just once in four games, however, the Flames have out-chanced their opponents by 10 with Stone on the ice at 5v5. More chances = more goals, obviously, so it's encouraging the Flames are winning that battle with him on the ice. If he continues to compliment Brodie on the 2nd unit the Flames will be in good hands because we know what the top pairing is capable of contributing on a consistent basis.
4) I really like this Flames team -- there aren't many holes on it -- but they really need to clean things up when it comes to discipline. Sam Bennett seemingly takes a penalty every night and Alex Chiasson has taken some really stupid and selfish penalties of late (elbowing, spearing, etc.). The Flames can't go against, say, San Jose, take dumb penalties and expect to get away with it.
5) Here is what I would do in advance of the Wednesday deadline: trade for a winger like P.A. Parenteau to help add a little more in terms of possession, versatility (he can play either wing) and scoring depth. That way if a winger goes down you have a guy capable of moving up in the lineup and producing. That's all I would do, assuming a great deal doesn't fall on the Flames' lap. This team is legitimately good and there seems to be a good vibe around it. I wouldn't change too much.
Recent posts:
On Brouwer, Tkachuk, Stone and more
Report: Flames scanning market for a goaltender
Examining the Michael Stone trade
Pacific Division bold predictions
Pacific Division breakout players
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