Whether it came from Leafs or Flames fans, a round of mock cheers for Rittich made it painfully obvious: clearly, this is an issue.
Rittich’s teammates defended him, as they would, suggesting the series of unfortunate bounces and breaks had more to do with their fate than shaky goaltending. In a town clamouring for Smith to be benched in favour of the second-year Czech goalie, you can bet the Toronto media who witnessed it all were further convinced the biggest question mark in Calgary is between the pipes.
Are Rittich’s 60 games in the NHL enough for him to enter his very first playoffs with enough experience to withstand the pressure, grind, ups and downs of spring hockey? Does Smith’s age, his .895 save percentage or his penchant for coughing up bad goals when his confidence wanes preclude him from returning to the all-star form he had early last season?
EricFrancis Is this where the train starts to come off the rails like in past seasons?
EricFrancis Their were some funny bounces, but Rittich did not track the puck well on the second Ennis goal, and the 5th and 6th goal just shouldn't go in. Bad bounces, but also not a very good showing for Rittich IMO.
EricFrancis What about Ennis’s third goal? Dude looked like he was asleep😂
EricFrancis Flames goalie didn't look mentally into the game. Tough games happen for all goalies. Not a big deal.
EricFrancis Why always trot out the same apologist? You should get perspective from other Flames writers, there are some good ones out there.
EricFrancis Flames got beat by a better team. Plain and simple
EricFrancis When you allow 6 goals, it’s partially on the goalie too🤷🏽♂️