Calgary Flames Reap Rewards Of Bennett Line Chemistry

The Calgary Flames realise that every potential ‘elite’ player needs the right supporting cast; something Sam Bennett has found with Michael Frolik and Mikael Backlund by his side.

Kristen Odland of the Calgary Sun touched upon this in a recent article, pointing out that whilst Sam Bennett is playing at an elevated level, his line-mates have been a contributor with strong form themselves.

Sam Bennett’s recent hot streak has seen him receive accolades from the league; awarded the NHL Second Star of the Week recently for a six goal haul across three games.

This in turn has elevated the Calgary Flames rookie in terms of Calder Trophy contention, with his name now entering discussions that would’ve seemed far-fetched as recently as early January.

Michael Frolik is a recent return to the Calgary Flames line-up following his spell on the injured list, and it’s no coincidence that Sam Bennett is showing stronger form since the return of the former Winnipeg Jets winger.

The chemistry between the trio has been evident with both Frolik and Backlund offering up more by way of assists in recent times for the Calgary Flames. This should be accredited to the confidence playing with Bennett offers; they know he is going to get in-front of net and seek out rebounds.

“We just have to keep working and try to talk and build even more chemistry.” – Michael Frolik (Calgary Sun)

Michael Frolik and Mikael Backlund may not be the poster-boys for the line, but it’s these sort of quiet contributors that are looked upon highly in a Stanley Cup chase.

This year, that may not happen for the Calgary Flames, but with both guys secured for at least a few more years, it’s possible this line can offer the secondary contribution required beyond the first-line duo of Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan.

With the line’s average age working out to be 24, they can certainly offer up points for the Calgary Flames in the future. Their ability to do so will be a key, along with the continued offensive output from the blue-line from the likes of T.J. Brodie and Dougie Hamilton, moving forward.

Let’s hope they continue to thrive and cement themselves both on the second line and potentially as the secondary power-play unit.

Next: Calgary Flames Should Give Emile Poirier A Shot

What do you think of the contribution from Sam Bennett’s line-mates? Are they the key to the rookie’s recent success? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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