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After coming out of LA and San Jose with 3 out of 4 points, and taking both games to a shootout, I've come to realize that Feaster does not deserve all of this criticism he is receiving. Feaster and the Flames have impressed me this year.They've battled through adversity, and have showed that the Flames' organization does infact have some NHL-ready prospects.

After the disappointment last season, fans were crying for a rebuild, and I'll admit - I was too. The Flames' were an old, and unskilled team of veterans. Iginla had a stellar year, albeit with no help however.

Flames fans were hoping for a miracle at the Draft, and for some big trades to change Calgary. This was not the case, as Feaster took a moderate approach to the Draft and simply drafted the best player available. No trades were even made, which had the fans disappointed.

Fast forward up until now, and the Flames sit 2 points out of 8th spot in the West with a 22-20-6 record. It took me this long, but I actually love what Feaster is doing. The acquisition of Mike Cammalleri sent a message that the Flames are going for a playoff run. Since the acquisition of Cammalleri, the Flames are 1-1-1, not an impressive record by any means, however both teams played during those games are top teams – LA and San Jose.

Feaster this season, has done what Darryl would never have. He’s called up prospects, that actually deserved it. Horak, Brodie, Wilson, Piskula and now talks of Kolanos being called up.

Feaster, in my eyes is showing every team how to patiently rebuild, while STILL giving the team a chance to compete. This doesn’t mean we’ll win the cup, but it does mean that we have a future, AND can still compete now. With rumours swirling around that Feaster is shopping some D in search of a forward, the Flames chances will improve by the Trade Deadline.

Not only has Feaster helped the Flames’ future, but he has helped the present by changing the culture in the dressing room. Players are much more relaxed, and do not feel as pressured to play anymore. Olli Jokinens’ emergence has also played a major role.

Don’t forget the significant injuries that Calgary has had to play through with the likes of ; Alex Tanguay, David Moss, Brendan Morrison, Mark Giordano, Derek Smith and now Curtis Glencross all being injuried for a large amount of games. Despite those injuries, Calgary has still remained on pace for a solid season – considering everything.
Feaster has impressed this year, despite what many fans are saying. What he is doing, is for the best and will benefit Calgary for many years to come.

Quick Notes:
Brendan Morrison is returning to action on Saturday to play against Edmonton. This is his first game back in over a month.

Alex Tanguay should also be ready to play on Saturday, depending if his conditioning is up to par.

Curtis Glencross is week-to-week.

Jay Feaster and prospect Kolanos on the Abbotsford Heat are currently negotiating a two way contract.

Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter for more updates/news @RyanHB












Filed Under:   Iginla   Feaster   nhl   flames  
January 20, 2012 12:27 PM ET | Delete
Love the optimism, still have UFA's to move for future regardless if we can still see 8th spot. Will be interesting Feb.
January 20, 2012 12:57 PM ET | Delete
Yeah it should be. I expect Feaster to resign a lot of the guys, unless traded before then!
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