Ducks 6 – Flames 3
Maybe instead of the title head coach, Bruce Boudreau should be known as the mad chemist. His masterful job of shuffling the forward lines led to an impressive breakthrough by Anaheim's offense. Last night's six goal outburst by the Ducks was the most goals they scored in one game since January 21st; 31 days ago. Some tip of the hat needs to go puck luck as well. Ryan Getzlaf slap shot in the third period didn't come near the goal but with a carom off the boards as well as a lucky bounce from the rear of Jonas Hiller's leg, gave the Ducks a lead they would never relinquish. Also, I'm sure Hampus Lindholm never called “glass… when he hit an almost impossible bank shot into an empty net to end the game.
Defensively, the results weren't as pretty. Giveaways and penalties continue to be this team's Achilles' heal. Every one of Calgary's goals can be attributed to a Duck giveaway. Cam Fowler on the first, Pat maroon the second and Clayton Stoner the third.
It seems as thought the Ducks frequent penalties are causing a secondary problem. Aside from being shorthanded way too often, they no longer get the benefit of the doubt from the referees. I'm not accusing the referees of being biased at all. To clarify, when its a boarder line issue of weather to call a penalty for or against Anaheim, it goes against them.
Ducks at Oilers
The tour of Alberta continues tonight in Edmonton. Expect Boudreau to use the same lineup as last night. John Gibson makes back to back starts. Here is the anticipated lineup:
Forwards Maroon-Getzlaf-Palmieri DSP-Kesler-Perry Cogliano-Rakell-Silfverberg Bourque-Thompson-Jackman
Defensemen Fowler-Lovejoy Beauchemin-Lindholm Stoner-Brewer/Manson
Goalies Gibson Bryzgalov
-Ed
Everyone wants to make trade offers to the Ducks. Please send me a PM with your offers and I'll review them and maybe even get a little help.