Though the expectations weren’t there compared to some years in the past, the Calgary Flames are nearing the playoffs as one of the best teams in the Western Conference. Through 72 games, they own a 44-19-9 record, and they have a comfortable lead in first place in the Pacific Division.
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With their team success comes plenty of individual success. With 99 points, Johnny Gaudreau is in the Hart Trophy conversation. Jacob Markstrom has a great shot at being a Vezina Trophy finalist with a sparkling 2.16 goals against average (GAA) along with a .925 save percentage (SV%).
Despite their fantastic 2021-22 season, many are hesitant about this team going deep in the playoffs due to poor showings at that time of the year in the past. What those individuals fail to realize, however, is that this team is built for success in the postseason much better than any other roster general manager Brad Treliving has assembled. Here are three reasons why the Flames are in for a long playoff run.
Sutter at the Helm
Aside from possibly Todd McLellan with the Los Angeles Kings, there is no coach in the league who deserves the Jack Adams Award more than Darryl Sutter. He has completely changed the identity of this team, and it has turned them into a true powerhouse this season.
Darryl Sutter, head coach of the Calgary Flames (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)
In recent years, many questioned the will of this group, as it was clear they had the talent but often lacked consistency and at times a sense of urgency. That hasn’t been a problem at all in 2021-22 with Sutter in charge, as this team gives it their all every night and always seems to be structurally sound.
It is clear that this roster has great respect for their head coach, and they are following his systems to a tee. He knows what he is doing, proven by his Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014 with the Kings, and the Flames are lucky to have him. His wisdom behind the bench puts them…
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