I'm never happy after a loss, particularly a loss to Edmonton. However if it takes a disallowed post, 2 fluke occurances and an overtime for the Oilers to beat us, then so be it. Course, they are a couple other reasons Calgary managed to lose this one as well:
- Crap Powerplay. 0-7 on the night and frequently totally ineffective.
- No Primary scoring. Jarome and co. manage to miss a number of opportunities to score.
- Shabby 3rd period. Despite leading, the Flames came out flat in the 3rd and allowed the Oil back in the game. That's 2 straight contests where Calgary has looked like the inferior club in the last period (see - 3 goals against in the 3rd vs. Colorado).
Of course, all of the above are simply aspects of Calgary's continuing overall offensive ineffectiveness. Jarome Iginla misses an open net by hitting the post in the dying minute of the game? Par for the course this season.
As mentioned, though, despite Calgary's inability to score, Edmonton only won this game by the grace of God. broken sticks and negligent linesmen. Sudden, un-needed whistles and pucks deflecting off skates. It all added up to "one of those nights" for Calgary. Let's hope the same can't be said on Saturday night...
Positives:
- The second line of Simon, Lombardi and Kobasew are starting to crystalize into an effective trio. Frequently the best line for Calgary last night.
- Mike Leclerc returns to the line-up to score his first (and, almost, second) goal as a Flame. Much more effective on the 4th line.
- Jordan Leopold. Didn't get any points but seemed very poised and in control all night.
Negatives:
- Lose to the Oilers thanks to a lackluster 3rd period and powerplay. And odd circumstances.
- Dion Phaneuf. While still decent, hasn't been producing offensive numbers like he was before the Olympic break. Needs to get back on track.
- As mentioned, the powerplay. Wasted numerous opportunities and looked disjointed most of the night. The Flames were frequently better at 5on5 than they were at 5on4.
- Jarome Iginla. Minus 1 on the night and only 2 shots. Missed a glorious chance to put the game away.
- Lots of missed shots. Calgary literally shot as many pucks wide (20) as they got on net (20).
- Lack of killer instinct bites Calgary in the ass. Again.
Next up is Nashville. Gotta say, Im not too optimistic about this one. Given Calgary's mediocre road record as well as Nashville's seeming ability to beat us at will this year, the odds are stacked against us. Here's hoping we pull one out tomorrow...
