The jaded fan would suggest that a preseason record matters very little. The real games start in October, and the very real games start in April. 

They'd be right.

However, I can't seem to get past the fact that I'd likely be writing a very seriously toned article if the Flames were 0-3-1 at this point and not 3-0-1.

It doesn't count in the standings.

But it does seem to matter just the same.

The team is playing well.

The Calgary Flames had their way with the Minnesota Wild tonight to the tune of 6-0. On the way many players made their case for job placement with less than two weeks to go until the season opens.

CAMP IMPLICATIONS

DEFENCE

The best defenceman on the ice tonight was newcomer Rhett Warrener.

Admittedly, the audition was only 60 minutes in length but Warrener really stood out as a clear top four defenseman - a blueliner that combines physical play with mental smarts.

He started off with an assist on Jarome Iginla's first period deflection goal, and then added to it by making numerous sound decisions and the odd highlight reel hit. Still don't understand why he was send off for standing up Brad Brown.

Looks like a great pickup.

The only candidate for the "race for 7" to dress was Jesse Wallin, and he likely had his best night of the preseason. Wallin teamed with Warrener and was solid and physical for most of the night, only looking out of place on the powerplay.

Wallin finished with 22:33 of ice time and a +1 rating.

A big concern could be Robyn Regehr, as the hulking defender was no where to be seen after the first period.

FORWARDS

For those that haven't been paying attention ... there is a new type of fourth line in town. One centered by Blair Betts.

This kid has made the team, and what's more he has added an intrigue in that he has likely been underestimated as to his potential. He has great poise, patience and a good feeling for the game. He may chalk up more points this season than many have given him credit for.

To start the third period, Darryl Sutter reunited the MCI line by moving Dean McAmmond back with Iginla and Craig Conroy. 

The trickle down effect created a "Kid line" that consisted of Betts, Chuck Kobasew and Robert Dome. All three scored in the third period to pace the Flames.

Dome was virtually invisible through two periods on a line with Conroy and Iginla but fit in well with the two other youngsters. His goal actually came on a feed from Iginla however.

Chuck Kobasew's goal was his fourth in four games this preseason. Once again one would say he didn't do a whole lot but hit the scoresheet, a fact that should land him a starting role in Calgary.

Josh Green took somewhat of a step back on the night ... he fought the puck and didn't manage to get a whole lot accomplished when he was on the ice.

Future Lock Monster Matthew Lombardi was somewhat meek as well, showing he does need more time for development at the AHL level.

GOALTENDERS

Roman Turek pushed his shutout streak from 40 to 80 minutes on the night, a fact that is promising, but shouldn't be overstated.

He made a number of key saves in the second period when the Wild pressed for the equalizer in a 1-0 game. 

Brent Krahn mopped up in the third period to preserve the shutout and was unable to impress because of a lack of work.

Krahn only faced three shots in the final twenty minutes. A goose egg is a goose egg, but for a player that needs to stand on his head to win the backup role, it just won't get it done.