The big Flames winger had a solid two-point outing in Washington that may springboard his season
Since the start of training camp, the Flames have been doing all they can to help Adam Ruzicka reach his potential.
Ruzicka has the size and skill that could make the 24-year-old a valuable middle-six forward, which is why coach Ryan Huska continues to put him at left wing on a line with Nazem Kadri.
The Washington game, in which Ruzicka scored once — his first goal in 33 games, which co-incidentally also came against Washington — and added an assist is proof of his capabilities.
On his goal, Ruzicka won an offensive-zone face-off, found the soft spot in the low slot and quickly buried a one-timer.
There were flaws, mainly in the defensive zone, but essentially it was the effort Calgary is looking for from the 24-year-old with all of 78 NHL games under his belt, in which he has collected 12 goals and 34 points.
The problem is his motor does not always shift into a higher gear.
As was the case through a busy but strong pre-season, Ruzicka will be reminded it’s even more important he deliver that level of game on a consistent basis, starting with Thursday’s against the Buffalo Sabres.
Through three games, Ruzicka, who has three points, is on a similar roll as he was during a month-plus run last season until the wheels fell off in December.
There remains room for improvement, much like the Flames as a whole, and to a man. Ruzicka’s middling analytical numbers show cause for concern, especially against the offensive-zone starts he has been receiving. Although Kadri’s struggles are a factor, as things are not yet clicking for the very important center that is yet to net a single point.
For now, the Flames are willing to prod Ruzicka with regularity, but those days will end. Maybe Monday’s outing is a huge step to the player realizing what he can become and be a catalyst to him finding the formula.