Follow me on Twitter @ToddCordell

1) While the Calgary Flames have dropped the first three games of the season I'd pump the breaks before panicking.

The first two games against Edmonton they carried play more often than not. There were some bad turnovers - most notably from Dennis Wideman and Nicklas Grossman - and they ended up in the back of the net primarily because Connor McDavid is Connor McDavid. For the most part they played well but any mistake they did make ended up in the back of their net.

The worst showing in terms of controlling play came against the Vancouver Canucks, I think, but even then they led late despite playing their third game in four nights.

Their two stars up front missed almost all of camp, the players are still adjusting to new systems, and the goaltending hasn't been as good as it will be.

I expect the Flames will get back on track Tuesday night in Buffalo.

2) With Dougie Hamilton on the ice at 5 v 5 the Flames have out attempted their opponents 56-33 (62.9CF%) and have an expected goals for of almost 57%. Get this guy some more minutes.

3) Matthew Tkachuk hasn't been perfect, and there are aspects of his game that need to be worked on, but through three games he is a 56% possession player and he has the highest 5 v 5 expected goals for% on the Flames roster. If his line continues to get good looks a) the points will come and; b) he'll probably end up sticking around.

4) The Flames' biggest problem thus far is probably the play of their depth defensemen. Grossman was a disaster in the lone game he played and Wideman has been a huge defensive liability, too. He can't get around the ice at all and is bleeding breakaways like it's his day job. Brett Kulak is probably the best option of the three and I think he should remain in the lineup unless he proves otherwise.

Recent posts:

Flames sign Kris Versteeg

Flames, Gaudreau agree to long-term extension

Predicting the Pacific Division standings

Flames, Elliott working on contract extension

Pacific Division bold predictions

Hotstove: Pacific Division breakout players

Michael Ferland should score more next season

Join the Discussion: » 73 Comments » Post New Comment

» Three negatives from the Calgary Flames' 2020-21 campaign

» Three positives from the Calgary Flames' 2020-21 season

» Calgary Flames notes - May 19th

» Three things I'd like to see from the Calgary Flames down the stretch

» G52 Calgary Flames vs Ottawa Senators: Low-danger hockey