As far as things go for professional hockey players, Calgary's Zac Rinaldo might be having the most up-and-down week one could imagine. Rinaldo is more known for his physical style of hockey than putting pucks in nets, which is evident in the fact that he's only played five games in the NHL this season, spending the rest in the AHL or as a healthy scratch for the Flames.
Last Saturday night was a big one for Rinaldo, though. He landed a big hit to fire up his team, got involved in a TV time-out scuffle, and scored the game-tying goal for the Flames as they came back to beat the L.A. Kings 4-3. In Calgary's next game on Monday against Colorado, Rinaldo sat in the press box as a healthy scratch. The very next night the Flames took on the Arizona Coyotes, and Rinaldo was right in the thick of things again, scoring the game-winning goal, adding an assist and drawing two important penalties for the team as they beat the Coyotes 5-2. Rinaldo was once again a healthy scratch as the Flames beat Toronto 4-2 Thursday night.
The Flames have been have a great run the last while, having won seven straight games. We're sure Rinaldo's hot streak will likely end at some point but you have to wonder why the team wouldn't put him in the lineup while it lasts. Perhaps it's load management by Calgary's coaching staff. Either way, tough break for Rinaldo.
-
