Conroy sees some 2004 Flames in the 2008/09 version of the Flames

From Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun:

“We’re not in the offensive mode like we were with Juice (Kristian Huselius) and Tangs (Alex Tanguay), but we’re kind of like getting back to the team of ’04 with grit,” said the veteran Flames centre.

“We’ll make it really uncomfortable to play against. Do you really want those guys like (Todd) Bertuzzi and Iggy coming at you and those young guys flying at you, too? I’m starting to see a lot more similarities.”

Ever since the Calgary Flames went to the Stanley Cup final four years ago, one of the most popular exercises in town has been drawing comparisons between that team and the current squad. As Conroy essentially points out, the common ingredients missing the last three campaigns revolve around grit, tenacity and intimidation.

Read the entire article here.

I’m not so sure I buy Conroy’s comparison, but it sure doesn’t hurt to toss out those comparisons and raise expectations for next season. The Flames should be a tougher team to play against next season, at least physically.