So before the Conroy acquisition I was spouting off on how the Flames supporting cast wasn't getting it done on the road and that was probably the source of Calgary's struggles away from the Dome. Abracadabra, Sutter adds Conroy and depth down the middle, removes th weak link Lundmark and what happens? The Flames go into Columbus and it's the big guns that fail to show up.
Don't just take my word for it either -
"Our top players didn't play well at all," coach Jim Playfair said.
Langkow, Iginla and Tanguay. All pretty much useless last night. Jarome and the puck were like (as Millhouse would say) "two positively charged ions": whenever the two would meet, the result was often "repulsive" (in every sense of the word). For his part, Langkow looked equal parts bored and dazed. And Tanguay was back to trying to force long passes through 3 defenders again.
Can't recall the last time this year Jarome was so completely ineffective two games in a row. He's had over 40 minutes of ice during the last 2 losses and has managed to generate all of 1 shot on net. While it's ironic that this sudden spate of ineptitude is correlated to Conroy's return, I think it actually has little to do with line combinations. Anyone who watched the contest against the BJ's could plainly see Iginla was fighting the puck all night (as mentioned). He struggled in match-ups in the offensive zone and couldn't seem to make a pass to save his life. I suppose it's possible he's
1.) not 100% healed or
2.) not 100% up to game speed yet
Whatever the cause, hopefully he can turn it around soon. I don't think the boys can afford to go 0-3 on this roadtrip, which is possible given the next two opponents - and highly probable should Calgary's front liners continue to be less than effective.
Finally, cheers to:
Lombardi for getting back on the scoresheet.
Huselius for continuing his now league leading 14 game scoring streak.
Phaneuf for his being both mean and steady,
and Noodles for doing Yeoman's work in Kipper's stead.
Next Up - the Mighty Buffalo Sabres...
