madsprite18

As far as someone's speculation that the Habs might have the book on Ramo, he never played for their organization electing to play in the KHL instead. Any info they have on him is either way outdated from his TB days, not applicable since it was on the larger ice surface in the KHL, or simply based on pre-season scouting - none of which adds up to them having much of a clue as to what to expect from Ramo. In game 1 against the Caps, Ramo was outstanding in the first period and in OT. If it hadn't been for costly penalties and defensive breakdowns, the Flames would won that game in regulation and we would have likely seen Ramo start against both Columbus and Vancouver.

That only works if Kiprusoff is in town and not back home in Finland. I have to say it...I have to own it - I WAS DEAD WRONG about Ortio. He might have been pasted when he played for the Heat, but going home to Finland and getting some serious workhorse experience did wonders for improving his game and maturing him as a player and as a person. He was outstanding in the Young Stars game last night, poised, confident, and sensational. The way Vancouver out-played Calgary for the first 30 minutes, it was obvious that Ortio stole the game. His head was in the game and he remained seriously focused throughout, even with the jostling and scrums around him. I'm very impressed!

My bet as to what happens with the Flames' goaltending this year is this: Ramo as starter, playing 40 games. MacDonald as backup, playing 25 games. Berra as a second backup, playing 17 games. I believe the Flames will roll with a three goalie rotation - not such a far-fetched notion, considering that as well as Ramo has played in the KHL, he's averaged around 40 starts per year. MacDonald with more experience will get the nod most of the time as backup, but after his outstanding play on the international level, Flames brass will want to get a serious look at Berra, too. That will leave Brossoit and Ortio in Abbotsford. Ortio had a couple stints with the Heat over the past two year, but sadly his play was attrocious. His play back home in Finland hasn't been anything to inspire hope. Brossoit, on the other hand, has been outstanding in WHL play, both during the regular season and during the playoffs. He will be the starter for the Heat and future starter for the Flames (making an outstanding tandem with Gillies, once he turns pro).