Flames travel to Sylvain Lake Alberta to play in front of 1000 hockey fans, and a large throng outside on the grass. In classic storybook fashion the Flames come back to tie the game, then win it in overtime when two local Albertas team up to score the winner; Glencross from Russell.
Veterans
The Flames didn’t have a huge veteran group, but those that did make the trip asserted themselves well. Kris Russell factored into the game winner, and was otherwise solid. Brian McGrattan was on for the first goal against, but then scored one himself to even his score. Curtis Glencross had some chances, played a physical game, and scored the game winner.
New Additions
In a direct battle for the final spot on the roster on the blueline, two newcomers to the defense core had very diffrent evenings.
Sheldon Brookbank, paired with Patrick Sielof, had a tough night, though a large part of it was due to errors by his rookie partner. Meanwhile Diaz put up his second straight impressive effort suggesting the Flames may want to start talking contract if they want to avoid another team cruising in to sign the player out of Flames camp. Diaz moves the puck well, skates well, and is in place defensively at all times. He could push Russell, Wideman and Engelland for ice time should he stick around.
Engellend had another solid game again for Calgary as well, making me wonder if maybe the Flames had a book on this guy, and he’s not quite as over paid as many believe. OK, scratch that he’s still over paid, but perhaps not to an exponent.
Returning Gems
Starting to think Joe Colborne is going to have a pretty impressive season in Calgary. He’s bigger, seems faster, and is way more confident taking the puck wide and causing havoc. It’s preseason, and its early in said preseason, but the Flames may have a couple of young centers hitting 50 points this season, three if Backlund turns things around with his injury.
Best of the Younguns
Johnny Gaudreau was way more relaxed and confident compared to his game with the Oilers on Sunday. More tape to tape passes, five shots on goal, and the kid essentially took over the role of running the club’s top powerplay. In overtime they clearly tried to set him up as the tip of the umbrella with a defender to both sides. He may make the team for powerplay reasons alone.
Sven Baertschi … the good? He scored a goal, and for a guy that struggles with confidence that’s huge. He also knocked a few guys over and has ramped up his physical game. Also noticed him busting his ass to get back defensively on two occassions. The bad? He just doesn’t stand out offensively, showing any of the hands and wizzardry that we saw in previous camps
Markus Granlund … made an amazing pass to McGrattan for his goal, but other than that he just looks ready. So strong on his skates down low, he’s tough to contain for a guy without a lot of size. Really looking forward to seeing camp cuts and Granlund lining up with some NHL skill.
Michael Ferland … liked his game too. He’s not the straw that stirs the drink, but he’s great in front of the net, and has softer hands than you’d expect. Given his size, and ability to scrap, he’s an important prospect piece going forward.
Patrick Sielof … tough night for the rookie. Numerous giveaways, and bad decisions led to scoring chances and penalties for the young defender. He needs a full season of AHL hockey to get his game back on track.
