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The Calgary Flames’ rebuild seems to be on a bit of a fast-track; after adding just a few pieces like Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan and Sam Bennett through the draft, the Flames find themselves contending for a playoff spot already in 2014-15. The consensus opinion coming into the season was that Calgary would be more of a contender for the No. 1 overall pick in June’s draft as opposed to a playoff spot. But, through hard work and strong play this year, they are very much in contention as we hit the halfway mark of the season. The best part of this all: Calgary has played much of the season without lineup regulars like Mikael Backlund, and there is more great talent coming up through the AHL. It’s beginning to look like there could be some good years ahead in Calgary.
The Flames faced a big obstacle to start the season when Matt Stajan, Mason Raymond, Joe Colborne, and Mikael Backlund were all held out of the lineup due to injury. Now, all of these players have returned to the roster, most recently Backlund, who returned from injury in the Flames’ Jan. 7 loss against the Detroit Red Wings. Backlund was solid when he came back, posting a goal and an assist in the game against the Wings. Another player who has returned from the injured-reserve is Ladislav Smid. Smid adds nice depth to the Flames’ defense, playing on the third pairing with Deryk Engelland. His replacement during missed time, Raphael Diaz, was “average” during his time in the lineup. Having Smid back will be a nice boost for Calgary’s defensive group.
Injury returnees are more of a immediate remedy for any struggles the Flames may find themselves in, but, if we look even further into what could be going forward, it gets even more exciting.
Calgary’s fourth overall selection in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Sam Bennett, has returned to Saddledome ice and is skating with Flames‘ staff. His rehabilitation from shoulder surgery will stretch out even farther into this season, and it is unlikely he’ll play for Calgary this year, let alone practice with the team. But, it is nice to see him on the ice, and when you see skill like his, how can you not get excited?
Two players that are currently in the AHL with the Adirondack Flames who deserve high praise are Joni Ortio and Emile Poirier. Both players were selected to represent Adirondack in the AHL All-Star game, and both have some solid numbers. Ortio has 17 wins this season, including three shutouts. And, Poirier has 21 points in 29 games in his first full season in the AHL.
Whether you look at the future near or far, there are pieces in place for the Flames to have a chance at success. When you are in rebuilding mode, that is the end goal, to find success, so Calgary just needs to stay the course, trusting in Bob Hartley. With a little bit of hard work, it should all work out.
Shaun Lavery is a Calgary Flames writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter, or add him to your network on Google.
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