The Anaheim Ducks couldn't find away to overcome another slow start in Wednesdays 4-3 shootout loss to the Montreal Canadiens.
The Ducks were trying to win their fourth consecutive home game and third in row since the Olympic break, but we're without a sick Teemu Selanne or banged up Mathieu Perreault.
Anaheim had to use Luca Sbisa on the wing, if that tells you anything. The Ducks have been able to work their way through injuries and such because of their depth, but not against Montreal.
Despite throwing 42 shots at a rookie goalie they couldn't overcome having to climb back from an 0-2 hole. Anaheim had a brief 3-2 lead late in the second period before letting the Habs off the hook about a minute late with the tying goal.
I never thought the Ducks would have a chance to win and the OT and shoot out proved I was right.
The shoot out was intense, entertaining and not without it's controversy. Replays showed that an apparent Kyle Palmieri goal never actually went in and thenDucks eventually lost.
It's ok though. The effort was there.
I have to applaud the Ducks for at least getting a point. Montreal was buzzing after hearing that they had won the "who wants to rent Thomas Vanek" sweepstakes. The Canadiens jumped on a sleepwalking Ducks team. But Kudos to Bruce Boudreau's guys for not giving up.
A point is a point and a possible Cup preview lies ahead with the Pens in town on Friday.
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The Ducks newest addition Stephane Robidas skated with the team today and is on track to meet his March 14 return date. If you recall the veteran D broke both his fibula and tibia last season. It was ugly but he's back and I think he'll be a nice addition to this Ducks roster.
Anaheim was really wanting to add some toughness and had lost an opportunity to get New York defenseman Dan Girardi after the longtime Ranger re-signed with the team.
I think Robidas more than takes care of that need.
The Ducks and GM Bob Murray tried to add another scorer but a deal never came together. Even so, I really think, if healthy, this team can make a run at the Cup.
Do you like the deal and did the Ducks do enough to get them over the hump?