1) Over the last three games Dougie Hamilton has averaged ~16:30 per contest. Hamilton is not perfect - there will be some hiccups defensively - but playing him that little is inexcusable.
The Flames generate more shot attempts, shots on goal and scoring chances per 60 with Hamilton on the ice than any other blue liner on the roster. He is fantastic offensively and his ability to drive play and help create offense more than offsets any issues on the defensive side of the puck.
It makes no sense for the Flames to trade a bunch of picks for Hamilton, give him a fat contract, and then limit his minutes despite solid on-ice results. It makes even less sense when you look at the alternatives (Dennis Wideman, Deryk Engelland, etc.).
2) Sam Bennett didn't start producing until the last few games but he has been playing fantastic hockey this season and a case can be made he's been the team's best forward. At 5 v 5 the Flames have generated more shots, shot attempts and scoring chances per 60 minutes with Bennett on the ice than any other forward. He's been disruptive on the forecheck, he's been physical and he's been solid defensively (his scoring chance suppression has been very good thus far). If he continues to play like this he's going to get a nice little raise next summer.
3) After a couple strong showings from Brian Elliott the Flames' team save percentage is up to *checks numbers* .882 on the year. Yeah, there's still plenty of room for improvement.
4) The Stockton Heat lit up the scoreboard last night en route to a 7-5 win over the San Diego Gulls. Daniel Pribyl (one goal, three assists) and Morgan Klimchuk (two goals, two assists) led the way offensively while first year pros Andrew Mangiapane (one goal, one assist) and Rasmus Andersson (two assists) also chipped in with a pair of points. These kids are for real.