Nov 29, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Calgary Flames left wing Johnny Gaudreau (13) celebrates after scoring a goal in the third period against the Arizona Coyotes at Gila River Arena. Calgary defeated the Coyotes 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The end of November has arrived and our Calgary Flames sit at an ultra-impressive 15-8-2 record. If the playoffs were to start today, our Calgary Flames would be playing the Anaheim Ducks in the first round. I know, I know…it’s too soon to talk about playoffs but it is time to give our boys a pat on the back!
Best Move of the Month (October’s winner was the one game banishment to the press box for Johnny Gaudreau)
"Coach Bob Hartley has been nothing short of masterful in handling his goalie “rotation”. “Rotation” is not the right, “handling your goaltenders properly” is the correct phrase.Jonas Hiller‘s play has come back down to earth this month but Karri Ramo‘s play to start the month was also a notch below expectations.Remember Ramo being pulled in Florida? Remember Hiller following up saving Ramo by laying an egg in Carolina? Hartley played Hiller again following the Hurricanes game and gave Ramo a start the next night in part to ensure Hiller was fresh and ready for his former team the Anaheim Ducks. Lately, Ramo’s play has been noticeably sharper than Hiller and guess who we are seeing more off lately. Job well done Coach!"
Most Confusing Move of the Month (October’s winner was the handling of Josh Jooris)
"Poor Sven Baertschi! Baertschi has now played in a dozen games, only four of which he has passed the 10 minute played mark. As I tweeted during last night’s game in Arizona when I saw him playing in the final ten minutes of the third period, “yip this game is pretty much wrapped up”. Baertschi is currently on the 4th line playing alongside Brandon Bollig and Lance Bouma. I understand the Flames are trying to instill a more defensive edge to his game but putting his offensive prowess underneath all the constraints being placed on him is just unfair.I’m not suggesting sending him back to Adirondack, I’m suggesting trading him to a team that is willing to ride his offensive capabilities while he contines to learn his defensive ropes."
Surprise Player of the Month (October’s winner was Dennis Wideman)
"I was one of many fans who attached Calder Trophy expectations to Johnny Hockey Johnny Gaudreau. During the month of November I have had to use the phrases “finds a way to move you from the comfy spot on your couch to the edge of your seat” and “makes you stop drinking mid-throwback just in case you need to cheer” when talking about Gaudreau.Gaudreau currently sits 2nd in rookie scoring only behind Filip Forsberg. With Gaudreau it’s more than just goals and assists. Seemingly every time he touches the puck you expect something to happen whether it be a neatly deked defender, a sneaky-good pass or a swoop behind to the net to set up a sneaky-good pass.Johnny Gaudreau is passing my expectations and I’m loving it!"
Mancrush of the Month (October’s winner was Jonas Hiller)
"Josh freakin Jooris! The 24 year old rookie plays the game like he’s been a pro for four or five years. Jooris currently has 5 goals and 4 assists. Jooris kills penalties and can contribute on the powerplay.What more can you expect of a rookie who has come through the Calgary Flames organization never once having Calder Trophy expectations whispered near his name?"
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