- Dec 9, 2004
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When Stone replaced Wideman, the Flames won 10 straight. Now with the addition of Hamonic, this could be an even better defense. Elliott was horrendous at the beginning and in playoffs, Smith even as a slight upgrade will help. The Flames also out paced the Oilers in wins/points after the first month once they adjusted to their new coach and their shut down line and 1st pair on defense was formed. It's not just adding Hamonic and Smith, it's the fact that this team looked like an upper echelon team for a good chunk of the season and has since made improvements going forward.
The additions of Hamonic and Stone over Wideman is definitely an upgrade... I'll give you that. But I don't agree that because of their additions, the Flames are a 'completely different team now' as you had said in your original post. This is Hamonic and Stone we're talking about.. not some elite top pairing dmen.
Quite a few teams went on big winning streaks last year.. including the Oilers. If I recall correctly.. the Flames won 10 straight against some pretty mediocre teams. And the Flames regulation win record vs playoff teams last season was not good.. all year long.