Playing with fire

Aside from the furious, but futile comeback attempt by the Ducks in the third period Saturday, that was by far the Flames best effort of the playoffs so far and as a fan gives me a lot of confidence heading into Monday's late night game.

The forecheck was absolutely dominant and the special teams were great. It was nice to see Lombardi step up with an outstanding effort. Here's hoping the Flames other speedster Shean Donovan can also get on track.

The negatives were few, but noticebale. Phaneuf is still adjusting to playoff hockey and Mike Leclerc isn't turning into the secondary scoring threat everyone hoped he would be.

On the bright side, Kipper still looks very solid in net. He didn't have to come up with the specatular, mind blowing saves fans are used to, but he is always in the right spot and gives the team a chance to win. Rhett Warriner was the best defenceman on the ice and Iginla was his usual superstar self.

Heck, the Flames even won both the fights.

As for the telecast, Andy Murray continues to impress. His discussion of the events taking place this summer in his hometown was both informative and ammusing. He continues to provide insightful analysis and witty comments (much like this blog does) and I sure hope CBC keeps him around in some capacity for the rest of the playoffs.

Finally, it's not often I agree with anything an Oilers player, coach or even fan says, but those two referees tonight were brutal. Mind you the bad calls went both ways, and the pair didn't go as overboard as they did in Edmonton Thursday night. Still if Stephen Walkom and his crew are paying attention, then Joanette and Warren should be done for the year.