Fan Poll Friday

The Flames have an interesting dilemma come Saturday: let David Rittich get back on the horse after getting drilled in Vegas 7-3 OR let Jon Gillies have the crease after a very strong performance against the Coyotes Thursday night?

David Rittich has been more than advertised since he took over as Mike Smith’s backup this season. He’s been rock solid in spot starts, but has struggled in his 5 starts since Mike Smith went down with a groin injury. Rittich was lights out in the Flames 2-1 OT loss to the Bruins, but his play (along with the rest of his teammates) has been iffy. He’s gone 1-3-1 in his 5 starts and had losses of 5-2, 6-3, and 7-3 in that stretch.

Jon Gillies made his first start of the season in Arizona and got the win in a 5-2 Flames victory. Gillies gave up a goal before the first minute had ticked off the clock, but his defence was mainly to blame for that marker. After that he settled in and played very well stopping 35 of the 37 shots that came his way. Sure, it was the Coyotes, but nothing will build confidence in a young netminder more than a solid performance.

So, what’s the verdict? Should David Rittich hop back in net on Saturday afternoon against the Avs or should the Flames give Jon Gillies another look? Vote in our poll below!