Listen to “Preseason Prospect Paradise – Flames Unfiltered – Episode 209” on Spreaker.
— EPISODE 209 —
In this highly engaging episode of “Flames Unfiltered,” hosts Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis take a deep dive into the latest developments from the Calgary Flames’ preseason. They share their excitement about the promising signs from the team’s prospects, particularly highlighting standout individual performances. Brad and Kyle also discuss the impact of recent roster cuts, player fitness levels, and potential lineups for the new season, all while maintaining a balanced view with insightful analysis and witty banter.
Throughout the episode, the hosts touch on multiple facets of the Flames’ training camp, the intriguing battles for roster spots, and the individual player performances that are making waves. With their combined expertise, Brad and Kyle dissect the optimism surrounding the team’s direction and future prospects. The discussion covers key players like Matthew Coronato, Dustin Wolf, and Devin Cooley, while also addressing some concerns and areas for improvement. The episode provides comprehensive coverage for Calgary Flames fans eager to stay updated on their team’s progress as the regular season approaches.
The preseason individual performances of the Calgary Flames’ prospects have generated significant optimism among the fanbase.
The Flames’ goaltending depth and the potential impact of rookie performances, especially from Dustin Wolf and Devin Cooley, are promising.
Player fitness results have highlighted veterans like Michael Backlund and underlined the importance of maintaining high standards.
Brad and Kyle discuss the controversy and implications of jersey ads, juxtaposed with the nostalgic return of the Blasty jersey for 15 home games.
Insights into the high costs of game jerseys raise concerns about the accessibility of hockey merchandise for fans.
“It’s just good to see Flames hockey back. It’s good to open up my phone, look at my calendar – hey, a game tomorrow night to look forward to.” – Brad Burud
“Matt Coronato’s performance so far gives hope that perhaps our prospects are going to continue to pan out.” – Kyle Lewis
“The emphasis is really on individual performances, and we’ve seen a whack of good ones so far.” – Kyle Lewis
“You need those characters, man. You need guys that can lift you up when you’re going through a bad day.” – Kyle Lewis
“It’s going to be a fun year to be a Flames fan. The results might not always be what we want, but there’ll be some surprises too.” – Brad Burud
Stay tuned to “Flames Unfiltered” as Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis continue to provide in-depth analysis, insider perspectives, and all the excitement surrounding the Calgary Flames. Don’t miss future episodes and keep connected with the latest in Flames hockey!
Brad Burud: Brad Burud is one of the hosts of “Flames Unfiltered.” As an enthusiastic follower of hockey, particularly the Calgary Flames, his insights and perspectives make him a notable voice among Flames fans. His extensive experience in hockey discussions adds depth and authenticity to the show.
Kyle Lewis: Kyle Lewis is the co-host of “Flames Unfiltered” alongside Brad Burud. With his dynamic approach and critical understanding of the game, Kyle offers sharp analysis and engaging conversations on the show’s topics, focusing intensively on the Calgary Flames’ prospects and preseason developments.
Key Takeaways:
With the preseason in full swing, Calgary Flames fans are riding a wave of enthusiasm. Co-hosts Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis bring spirited perspectives on the team’s current performance in their podcast, “Flames Unfiltered.” As Brad points out, “It’s just good to see Flames hockey back.” This sentiment is echoed throughout the discussion, signaling a collective hope that this season could bring unexpected highs.
As preseason games unfold, the hosts celebrate Calgary’s strong individual performances. Kyle acknowledges, “We’ve seen a whack of good ones so far.” This energy is vital for a team perceived by many as rebuilding, underlined by Burud’s observation of the excitement: “It’s goddamn exciting!” Their conversation epitomizes a prevalent optimism among the fanbase, mirrored by increased listener engagement with their show.
Performance of Young Prospects
Team performance in the preseason can often serve as a harbinger for the regular season, and Calgary Flames is front and center in this regard. The hosts highlight several promising young talents, such as Matt Coronato and Jeremie Poirier. As Brad notes, “He is doing everything,” instantly creating excitement for what these young athletes could bring to the table during the regular season.
Talking about Sam Morton, Kyle emphasizes that Morton “is leading the conversation to have a fourth-line spot as a surprise of training camp.” This indicates a promising future and highlights the influx of new energy into the team. The hosts also discussed the positioning of other young players, such as Jacob Pelletier and Tyson Barrie, exploring whether these players will make the final roster.
The focus on individual performances in preseason games brings hope, as Kyle noted, “We know we don’t have a clear-cut number one center, but we could have three to potentially four good centers.” This demonstrates a broader, more strategic team-building approach where young talent has room to thrive.
The composition and evolution of the Flames roster remains a critical theme. As training camp progresses, ongoing assessments determine who will make the cut. The hosts speculate about various roles young prospects might play and how the final roster will shape up. Brad and Kyle emphasize that every training camp decision must be based on merit and performance.
Reflecting on the veteran status and preparation of Michael Backlund, Kyle aptly noted, “He’s a freaking machine. The guy’s…so well prepared all the time.” This insight underscores the blend of experience and youth that will likely characterize the Flames’ final lineup.
Further discussions stress the significance of goaltending. The hosts explore potential decisions regarding Devin Cooley, who impressed in preseason games. Brad suggests, “I think we’re going to have a three-headed monster to start there,” highlighting the depth and competition in this critical position.
Off-ice Issues and Their Impact
The addition of jersey advertisements and rising merchandise prices are pressing topics of debate. Kyle’s open frustration with gambling advertisements on jerseys is palpable: “I am so sick of gambling being shoved in everyone’s throats.” This sentiment resonates with many fans, reflecting broader discontent with how commercialization and gambling promotions are encroaching on beloved sports traditions.
Moreover, the price of memorabilia, such as jerseys, is becoming prohibitive. As Brad lists, “Prices on these new fanatics: $499.99 for a game…and $624.99 if it’s lettered,” Kyle’s reaction is instantaneous and blunt: “Are you mike now?” The rising costs make it difficult for families to engage in fandom, a point the hosts find particularly troubling.
Brad and Kyle emphasize that these off-ice issues affect more than just aesthetics and finances; they also influence how accessible and relatable the team remains for its growing fanbase.
The return of former players in managerial roles has been a focal point for the Calgary Flames. Brad and Kyle discuss the positive and potentially challenging implications of these appointments. They consider whether the influx of past players like Michael Stone and Matt Stajan into management roles is a smart move or one grounded more in sentimentality.
Highlighting the appointment of Stajan as a skills consultant, Kyle remarks, “None of us will forget…he’s such a, well, like guy and…a real consummate pro.” It affirms the value and depth of experience these ex-players bring, yet cautions that their success hinges on their ability to adapt and contribute effectively in their new roles.
This sentiment is echoed in their discussion of former coaches like John Tortorella and Darryl Sutter. Tortorella’s involvement with mental health initiatives, such as bringing in hockey coach Gaudreau, is praised highly. Brad reflects, “I think if you talk to a lot of players in the league, they’ll name…Tortorella…and Sutter…at the top of the list of players that influenced their career the most.” These former coaches are valued not just for their tactical acumen but also for their humanitarian efforts.
New Jersey Designs and Fan Reactions
The Flames’ decision to reintroduce the Blasty jersey for 15 home games drew mixed reactions from Brad and Kyle. Brad, ever the traditionalist, remains critical: “Calgary never, ever, ever…I will never like the McDonald’s jersey.” Meanwhile, Kyle acknowledges its popularity, “Whether you love Blasty or not, you don’t need to be. There’s something for everyone.”
This blend of opinions mirrors the larger fanbase’s divided views on nostalgic and modern jersey designs, underlying the tension between innovation and tradition.
Calgary Flames’ preseason offers a wealth of insights and sparks deep discussion among fans and experts alike. Key themes from Brad and Kyle’s podcast underline the youth performance trends, roster dynamics, and off-ice issues impacting the team’s future. Whether debating the implications of preseason performances, the merits of management changes, or the contentious matter of jersey ads, these conversations are vital to understanding the Flames’ evolving narrative. As preseason games progress, the excitement, speculation, and anticipation only grow stronger, fueling hopes for a memorable season.
Flames Unfiltered features two passionate and opinionated hosts. Brad Burud has been with the show since the beginning and was the creator of the show. A Flames fan since 1986 he brings the old school approach to the show. As a Theoren Fleury and Mikka Kiprusoff fan he longs for the playoff runs he watched decades ago. Kyle Lewis joined the show for the start of season four. A Flames fan since the 90’s, Kyle is a huge collector of Calgary game-worn jerseys. Jarome Iginla was the hero for the Flames when Kyle started this journey and Iginla will always be a favorite. Kyle hopes this year’s version of the Flames can bring him the happiness he felt when Gelinas scored the overtime game winner over Detroit. Thanks for joining us. Sit back and enjoy some Flames hockey talk.
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