The sample size is small but the difference is noticeable. Two games into Darryl Sutter’s second tenure in Calgary, the team looks bought in to how their new head coach needs them to play. In consecutive wins over Montreal, the Flames controlled possession, limited chances effectively, and played comfortably with the lead. These are encouraging signs, but it’s now on Calgary to prove this is more than just a “new coach” bump.
The story so far
Sutter’s formula isn’t complicated or novel, but it’s effective and proven. Much like his time in Los Angeles, Sutter preaches a few central principles: control offensive zone possession, put pucks towards the net, and pressure relentlessly without it.