It took some time but the Calgary Flames are finally starting to play up to their potential.After winning just two of their first 11 games the Flames have won three of their last four and are starting to climb out of the big hole they've dug as a result.The Flames still have some work to do but, despite winning just five of their first 15, they are only three points out thanks to the ineptitude of Pacific Division teams.Some thoughts on their play of late:1) As much as anything I think the Flames' recent success can be attributed to the return of T.J. Brodie and his play since being inserted back into the lineup.Brodie has logged big minutes and made a significant impact at both ends of the ice. He has three points in six games and the Flames have simply dominated play with him on the ice.Over the last six games the Flames have generated 63%(!!!) of the scoring chances at 5 vs 5 with Brodie out there while they have generated just 53% with him on the bench. Unsurprisingly that has led to a plus-5 goal differential at evens with No. 7 on the ice.He may very well be the best defenseman on the team.2) Dougie Hamilton still isn't playing like the Dougie Hamilton we saw in Boston but he's heading in the right direction. He has points in two of his last four games and has looked more confident with and without the puck. It may take some time but I think he'll be just fine.3) The decision to sign Michael Frolik in free agency is paying dividends thus far as he's been one of the team's best possession players and is certainly holding up his end of the bargain offensively.Through 15 games Frolik has 11 points - 10 of which have come at full-strength - and ranks 5th in the NHL in 5 vs 5 points per 60 minutes with 2.88.The guys ahead of him? Tyler Seguin, Jamie Benn, Tomas Fleischmann and Kyle Turris.Just below? Patrick Kane, Joe Pavelski, Taylor Hall and Johnny Gaudreau.That's pretty good company, I think.4) I don't like to pile on guys when they're struggling but Kris Russell's play is a big problem for the Flames right now.With Russell on the ice at full-strength the Flames are a 44% possession team and get 45% of the scoring chances. Without him they are a 51% possession team and get 53% of the scoring chances.If he is highly regarded by some teams league-wide I think GM Brad Treliving would be smart to take some calls and see what is out there.5) Sam Bennett through 14 games: 50.7 Corsi For percentage, 2.31 points per 60 at 5 vs 5. Those are some pretty ridiculous numbers for a 19-year-old who basically lost a year of development last season.