Some off day thoughts as the Calgary Flames get set for Friday's game against the Boston Bruins:
1) Dougie Hamilton has taken a beating from many Flames observers throughout the year, and at times deservedly so, but as a whole I think his struggles have been a little over blown.
His counting numbers aren't where anyone wants them to be just yet but, despite at times seeing limited ice, only 18 blue liners have more shots than Hamilton, only nine have more than his 25 even-strength scoring chances and Hamilton is making a positive impact on possession.
He is creating a lot more offense than he's been given credit for and if he continues to do so the points will come.
It's all about the process.
2) Mark Giordano is another guy who is generating more offense than his point totals would suggest.
Only 13 defensemen have more shots - all of whom have more points - and only nine have more even-strength scoring chances.
If he continues to create chances and get pucks on net at the rate he has thus far he'll be rewarded accordingly.
3) Jiri Hudler has put up respectable numbers (14 points in 23 games) this season but I haven't been impressed with his play.
He looks a step slow and generally the Flames have been caved in with him on the ice.
At 5 v 5 the Flames generate 44% of scoring chances with Hudler. Without Hudler the Flames generate 53% of the scoring chances. That's a substantial difference.
Given the Flames allow a large amount of scoring chances with Hudler on the ice it should be no surprise that has translated to the goal numbers. With Hudler on the ice the Flames are scoring just 36% of all goals at 5 v 5.
I wrote in the summer that he'd come back to earth this season and to this point that's been the case.
Hopefully for the Flames he can pick things up and increase his trade value prior to the deadline because I don't see him sticking around long-term.
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