4-Peat
Tonight the Ducks play for the final time in the regular season, in a makeup game in against the Capitals. After 81 games down, this one is still very important. Last night's collapse by Los Angeles opened the door for Anaheim to take the Pacific Division. A win against Washington will net the Ducks their fourth consecutive division title, tying San Jose's record (2008-2011).
A win also sets up a playoff series with the Nashville Predators. A loss means a matchup with San Jose. Some people say, big deal, it doesn't matter who we play. I beg to differ and I'll give a few reasons why.
I believe that a series between two teams separated by more than one time zone, favors the team with home ice. Said home team has the advantage to sticking with their internal schedule more often. While on the topic, due to television and other considerations, the Ducks have played more games early than other teams outside the division have played late.
The NHL playoffs are always competitive and a one or two seed in the West guarantees nothing. I do however, like playing the opening round as a favorite. Mentally its better to swat flies than hunt elephants early on.
Finally, in the second season, emotions are intensified. If a fierce rival can be avoided in the opening round, I'm all for it. Why not have a series under the belt before playing against a demanding opponent? Any time the Ducks take the ice against San Jose or L.A. There is always the chance that a slobber-knocker breaks out. Avoid the additional wear and tear, let them beat the heck out of each other for a week or so and play the survivor.
Filling Up
Whomever the opponent later this week, the Ducks should be back to almost full strength roster wise. Long term injured players Brandon Pirri, David Perron, Kevin Bieksa and Frederik Andersen are listed as day-to-day and due back at any time. Minor injuries and illnesses to Ryan Kesler, John Gibson, Clayton Stoner, Shawn Horcoff and Sami Vatanen should be cleared up as well.
Ducks @ Washington
Its going to be interesting to see how this one shapes up. Washington has clinched the President's Trophy for best record and have nothing to play for unless they decide to get Brayden Holtby his 49th win of the season. That seems unlikely because as nice as it would be to get their goalie the single season wins record, risking an injury in a pointless contest before the playoffs makes little sense. They may also rest some other key players tonight.
On the Ducks side of the ledger there are a few certainties. We won't see Ryan Kesler or John Gibson, both of whom are a little banged up from last night. Frederik Andersen, who missed the previous four games with concussion like symptoms has been named the starter by coach Bruce Boudreau.
Despite the nagging injuries, the Ducks will have a full roster of 20. Nick Ritchie, Shea Theodore, Chris Wagner and Michael Sgarbosa all played last night. There is a good chance recent call ups Corey Tropp and Stefan Noesen get in the tonight's game.