FLAMES UNFILTERED

EPISODE 212|SEASON 6

Flames Altering Expectations

Listen to “Flames Altering Expectations – Flames Unfiltered – Episode 212” on Spreaker.

— EPISODE 212 —

In this thrilling episode of “Flames Unfiltered,” hosts Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis dive deep into the recent performance of the Calgary Flames, analyzing their unexpected 3-0 start to the season. With the team demonstrating newfound energy and resilience, the hosts discuss whether the Flames might be better than they initially appeared. The episode explores the contributions of key players, the dynamics of the team, and the overarching strategies that have led to their early success.

Through engaging banter and expert analysis, Brad and Kyle dissect games against Vancouver, Edmonton, and Philadelphia, highlighting significant moments such as Anthony Mantha’s impactful play and Connor Zary’s development. The discussion centers on the remarkable synergy within the Flames’ lines, emphasizing crucial players like Jonathan Huberdeau and Michael Backlund. The podcast not only celebrates the Flames’ victories but also underscores the importance of maintaining momentum and navigating future challenges in the NHL season.

Key Takeaways:

• The Calgary Flames have started the season strong with a 3-0 record, showing an impressive team performance and resilience.

• Key players such as Jonathan Huberdeau, Michael Backlund, and Anthony Mantha are highlighted for their significant contributions.

• The Flames are likened to past successful seasons, drawing parallels to the 2014-15 Flames team.

• There’s a discussion on the strategic moves made by the Flames, including video reviews that significantly impacted game outcomes.

• The hosts analyze potential changes in team dynamics and the expectations moving forward with young talents like Connor Zary emerging.

Notable Quotes:

1. “You know, it’s time to start having the conversation that maybe they’re way better than we think they are.” – Kyle Lewis

2. “The future is bright, and [Zary] may just be the next Calgary flame superstar.” – Brad Burud

3. “The Flames are not as bad as people thought they’d be. And in fact, thus far, they’re a pretty good team.” – Kyle Lewis

4. “When you get everybody pulling in the same direction, that’s when great things are gonna happen.” – Brad Burud

5. “Connor Zary, is this guy showing us now in his sophomore year that he is the real deal? Thus far, yes.” – Kyle Lewis

Listeners are encouraged to tune in to the full episode for an in-depth analysis of the Calgary Flames and to stay updated with the latest insights and exciting discussions from the “Flames Unfiltered” podcast. Stay tuned for more hockey talk and expert commen

Brad Burud: Brad Burud is a seasoned hockey analyst and co-host of the “Flames Unfiltered” podcast. With extensive experience in covering the NHL, particularly the Calgary Flames, Brad brings insightful perspectives and deep knowledge of the game. He is known for his unfiltered opinions and engaging style of commentary.

Kyle Lewis: Kyle Lewis is a knowledgeable hockey enthusiast and co-host of “Flames Unfiltered.” His expertise in NHL analysis and dedication to providing a thorough examination of the Calgary Flames make him a valuable voice in the hockey podcast community. Kyle’s sharp insights and lively discussions keep listeners informed and entertained.

Flames on Fire: How the Calgary Flames Defy Expectations

Key Takeaways

• New Team Dynamics: The Calgary Flames showcase impressive depth and youthful energy, hinting at a promising season ahead.
• Strategic Changes: Adjustments in player positions and line formations are reaping unexpected successes.
• Emerging Talent: Young players like Connor Zary and Sam Honzik are making significant impacts, contributing to the Flames’ strong start.

The Calgary Flames have kicked off their 2023 NHL season with a surprising and exciting run, capturing the attention of hockey enthusiasts everywhere. In a podcast episode of “Flames Unfiltered,” co-hosts Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis delve into various aspects that are driving the Flames’ early success. From the effective synergy among new line combinations to the unexpected performances by emerging talents, this season is shaping up to be an intriguing one for the Flames.

New Team Dynamics: Depth Over Superstar Power

The Flames are making headlines not due to a single standout star but because of the cohesive depth and performance across all lines. As Kyle Lewis articulated, this version of the Flames “certainly lacks the high end skill of some of those 14-15 Flames, but to me, this is a much, much deeper team” (0:08:29). This depth means that every line is contributing to the scoreboard, evidenced by their first three games scoring six, six, and four goals.

Burud and Lewis discuss how this depth has allowed coaches the freedom to craft lines that maximize each player’s strengths. This was exemplified in the move to pair Jonathan Huberto with players who create space and make room for him to maneuver. “We had Lindholm, and you always think it’s just like a video game. You just put all your skilled players together and stuff’s going to happen” (0:14:14), but now they have a coherent strategy that utilizes collective strengths.

Impact Beyond the Rink

The Flames’ current standing is not merely about winning games. The broader implication is boosting the morale of the entire team and fan base. With every player believing they can make a difference in a game, the Flames exhibit signs of being not only contenders but a unit playing for something greater than individual accolades. As Lewis points out, when everyone is “pulling in the same direction, that’s when great things happen” (0:45:06).

Strategic Changes: Reaping the Unexpected

The coaches’ strategic changes, such as offering new roles and trust to players like Braden Paschal, have paid dividends. Paschal went from being a possible third-pair defenseman to a crucial player in the Flames’ lineup, earning accolades like “he’s like really good at hockey” and revealing his potential as a top-four defenseman (0:04:40).

Burud mentions, “We just need him to keep playing like he is, and he’s our six guy,” illustrating the team’s flexibility and willingness to adapt strategies based on unfolding performances (0:05:04). Similarly, players such as Anthony Mantha and Jonathan Huberdeau’s positioning have been instrumental in turning play dynamics to their advantage.

Building a Culture of Adaptability

The Flames’ strategy indicates a shift towards a culture that rewards adaptability and skill rather than rigidity and set plays. The coaching staff’s choices indicate a keen eye for matching player attributes to game scenarios. As Huberdeau continues to adjust to his role, his improved form is an indicator of the effectiveness of these decisions. Lewis notes, “Huberdeau… is a lot more reminiscent of the Huberdeau they had in Florida” (0:14:54), showing significant improvements from last season.

Emerging Talent: The Youthful Push

One of the central narratives is the unexpected impact and maturity shown by young players like Connor Zary. He’s mentioned as possessing patience way beyond his years, reminiscent of veteran players’ pacing, suggesting he could be “the next Calgary Flame superstar” (0:12:03). Burud also touches on players like Sam Honzik, who have been integrated into the lineup earlier than anticipated but have shown resilience and potential.

Future Implications of Youth Emergence

The stars seem aligned for this Flames squad to potentially redefine expectations. Young talents infuse enthusiasm and challenge seasoned players to elevate their games. As Burud reflects, “I can’t think of the last time we had young talent in a Flames lineup” to this caliber (0:33:35). This youthful push provides hope that the Flames are not just in a temporary purple patch but are building a team for sustainable future success.

Emerging from the Flames: Path Ahead

With the Flames’ promising start, fans and analysts alike are beginning to revisit preseason expectations. The trio of wins against noted strong teams—Vancouver, Edmonton, and Philadelphia—suggests a team capable of defying naysayers. This kind of start can catalyze a team into a potential playoff contender, with the consistency and deeper game performances becoming far more sustainable.

Burud and Lewis encapsulate the team’s spirit when they say, “This is a different team” with potential exceeding just this season’s aims (0:44:09). The Flames have reshaped the narrative by relying on collective strength, individual courage, and an unswerving focus on adaptability, setting a striking tone for the exciting season ahead.

The enthusiasm is palpable, and as the Flames continue this journey, one thing is clear: this is a team with a fighting spirit and rich potential. Whether these early wins translate into sustained success is yet to be seen, but the formative steps are undeniably groundbreaking and warrant the hopefulness shared by Burud and Lewis.

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