Most people are betting on 5 playoff teams coming from the central, leaving 3 spots for the Pacific. I think this team is good enough to slot in above the Sharks and take the 3rd spot. Smith should be rejuvenated and Gulutzan will be more comfortable behind the bench this year.

My WC playoff teams

1. Nashville
2. Chicago
3. St. Louis
WC1. Dallas
WC2. Minnesota

1. Edmonton
2. Anaheim
3. Calgary

Sorry, but if this happens I wouldn't bet on CGY in the Battle of Alberta. Good luck this year Flames fans.

Honestly, I didn't understand why you're playing Lazar in the top 6 if he has nothing to show for it. Otherwise, I'd say your success is highly contingent on young guns producing (Tkachuk, Bennett, Lazar, Jankowski, Foo), plus Mike Smith coming as advertised. As such, I don't expect this to be a cup challenging team, though that would be possible if all those rookies are surprisingly good in the NHL.

My best guess would be that the Backlund line is playing third line because they are the best shut down line on a team. No order as to who is more skilled. It is sometimes just preconceived that the third line is shut down and plays against the other teams top line.

Like where this is headed! With this coming season to mature and develop I can defiantly see this team challenging the Ducks and Soilers for the top 2 spots in the pacific not to mention the western conference!

Flames have a bright future with some great prospects (some not even on this team) on their way up!