2016-2017 Calgary Flames Season Primer
Calgary, AB- Things look to be good for the Flames heading into the final month of preparation before the 2016-2017 season gets underway. In honour of the new look Calgary Flames, we have decided to compile a season preview for the fans waiting in anticipation for the first puck drop, which takes place Wednesday October 12th against the Edmonton Oilers in the first battle of Alberta on the year.
Record: 41-35-5
Playoffs?: Yes
Leading Point Scorer: Johnny Gaudreau
Most Goals: Johnny Gaudreau
Most Assists: Sean Monahan
Breakout Player: Alex Chiasson
Biggest Disappointment: Dennis Wideman
Biggest Bounce-back: Dougie Hamiliton
The 2016-2017 season looks to be the Flames most promising since 03-04. Calgary has a plethora of young talent and skill, and now being backed by solid goaltending, the Flames could easily make another run in the playoffs. Calgary compete in a tough Western conference with Chicago, Los Angeles, Anaheim, St. Louis, San Jose and Nashville all leading "the charge". If the Flames plan on making the playoffs, they'll do so as either a wildcard team or with a underachieving season by the Ducks, Kings or Sharks. The Flames could find themselves in the second round of playoffs if they get help from other teams during the regular season and play tough during March.
A team can only go as far as a goalie takes them, so this year the Flames can go farther than they have since Kipprusoff retired. With "Moose" in net, the Flames have become exponentially better. In addition, the Flames boast a great amount of talent of the backend, highlighted by TJ Brodie, Dougie Hamilton and Mark Giordano. Defences win championships, and the Flames are nearing the title that has remained elusive since 1989 with the young core they have on D. The offense isn't too shabby either.
Johnny Hockey leads the talented group of forwards this season. 4th year leader Sean Monahan provides an incredible amount of poise at just 23 years of age. He is one of this team's "leaders" and his performance will reflect that of the team's. If he succeeds, the team will. If he falters, the team will. Another leader on offense in Mikael Backlund. The talented centre has taken somewhat of a "backseat" in the offense but has remained patient and understanding of the process. He deserves to star, and this year he could with all the pieces in place.
In conclusion, this year looks very promising for the Flames. Jump on the bandwagon before it becomes over occupied. The Flames time is coming, the only question is when.