Flames Young Guy Shows Subtle Shot At Former Coach

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Matt Garland
September 26, 2023 (12:11)

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The Calgary Flames hugely disappointed during the 2022-2023 season, many fans will point to the disconnect between the players and then head coach Darryl Sutter as the main reason for failure.

There are known reports of Flames players butting heads with Sutter. Signifgant names on this roster like Jonathan Huberdeau, Mikael Backlund and Nazem Kadri. It wasn't just the veterans that felt Sutter's wrath, but the rookies as well. How poorly Sutter treated Jakob Pelletier during his rookie season was truly shocking,

The poor treatment can be dated back to when Pelletier made his NHL debut. Sutter responded satirically post game when asked his thoughts on Pelletier's debut. He asked what number he was before reading out the stats.

Daily Face-Off's Frank Seravalli would later reveal the true story behind Sutter / Pelletier feud.

«The short story of it is they wanted to know if [Pelletier] was going to make his debut or not, and they wanted to get his parents in there to see it, and Darryl wouldn't give them an answer. So finally it took another player to go upstairs and say �what are we doing here? This kid is hanging around, is he making his debut or not? And if he is, at least give him enough courtesy to say you're in, let's get your parents in here to make sure they see your first NHL game.' Apparently the story goes that after that happened and he finally said yes he's playing, that's the reaction that you then get. �Oh you forced my hand into me playing this kid, this is how I'm going to handle it publicly. Just to let everyone know that this should have been my call.' That was his way of pushing back. And that's the stuff that goes on behind the scenes that drives people absolutely bananas.»

With Sutter long gone the temperature at Flames camp is a lot more relaxed. New bench boss Ryan Huska is a more offensive minded coach, relying on the individual talents of the players instead of focusing on the Xs and Os of the system.

One player who is definitely happy Sutter is gone is Pelletier. The 22 year old tossed a dig Sutter's way after practice.

«I think it's easier for the coaches to know the No. 22 to the No. 49. It's a joke. Just kidding, just kidding.»

The Flames should come out of the gates flying, now that they are released from the shackles of Darryl Sutter.

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