Calgary Flames Hot Start to the Morning Vol 62
By Len Nunes
Calgary Flames goaltender Joni Ortio (37) will be the Adirondack Flames opening night starter. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Good morning Calgary Flames fans.
By 3PM today, NHL rosters have to be set for the grand opening of the 2014-15 season. Is there a way Johnny Gaudreau will not be on the 23 man opening night roster for Calgary Flames? I think the bigger question is whether or not 1st round draft pick Sam Bennett will be on the original 23 man roster.
With Mikael Backlund having a preseason game under his belt, and seemingly avoiding suspension from a brain cramp during said preseason game, the position of 3rd line center is the only place to pencil in Mr. Bennett. Veterans like David Jones (30 years old) and Mason Raymond (29 years old) going through camp nicked up by injury is one thing but an 18 year old Sam Bennett constantly being nicked up is worrisome. Yes, I would like to see Bennett get a couple NHL regular season games under his belt but at who’s expense??
By 5PM, the inaugural edition of the “First Goal of the Game Contest” will be posted. A very simple concept, you will be asked who you believe will be the first Calgary Flame to score a goal will be and at what time that Calgary Flame will score the goal. If you are right, you earn points. Monthly winners receive a Flame For Thought keychain and an invitation to the April final round to be eligible to win a $150 gift certificate to Shop.Canada.NHL.com. Click HERE for the introduction of the contest posted last night.
Does anybody believe that the Coach Bob Hartley will play either Jonas Hiller or Karri Ramo on both ends of the season opening back-to-back games? I don’t think it matters how “close” the “competition” is for the #1 goalie title, be prepared to see both Calgary Flames goaltenders play in the first two games of the season. The “prestige” of the opening night start is over-rated!
Have a great day Flames fans!