I love watching playoff hockey when the Ducks aren’t involved. No stress, no headaches, no panic or worry of that do-or-die feeling of the next game. No sweaty palms and near death afternoon heart attacks. Gee, I sure sound sexy right now, don’t I?

Oh Lord Stanley…I sure do miss that playoff stress. Damn you Ducks! Anyway, there’s a lot of therapy needed around the NHL right now, and I can’t pretend that I miss wondering how many games the guy wearing an Anaheim jersey might get, so I will be grateful the Ducks aren’t involved in this ever growing drama of playoff suspensions.

So lets discuss the awful drama surrounding 16 other teams for a change, shall we?

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Visiting Calgary was like a breath of fresh air. Literally. Between the beautiful mountain ranges, the windy conditions, the chilly temperature and the fact that it was NOT Edmonton was simply glorious.

I would have loved a few more days in Calgary just to explore their downtown area, but mostly to spend more time in the Banff National Park. The slogan, "Canada's Rocky Mountain playground is closer than you think!" couldn't be anymore true. The side roadie to Banff National Park was beyond worth it. If not for the views, for the insanely hot waiter with the Aussie accent at the Fairmont Hotel in Lake Louise. Again, sir, I direct you to my email link at the bottom!

Alright, enough of that...on to Calgary, eh!

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Edmonton came in the middle of our trip and here are a few notes about the city before we get started:

- We left Vancouver WAY too soon.

- We didn't get to Calgary soon enough.

- Someone in Edmonton told us that Winnipeg is worse (uh oh...that trip will be interesting.)

- If I was Taylor Hall, I would have requested to be drafted number 2, just so I didn't have to live there.

On to Edmonton, eh!

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I just came home from every girls dream vacation. I’m sorry, what was that? You don’t know any other females who would consider a week in Western Canada following their favorite hockey team a dream vacation (other than those here on Anaheim Calling, I’m sure)? Those crazy chicks don’t know what they’re missing. I know I’ve already stated the basis of this trip, but I’ll go ahead and rehash it quickly. At the beginning of the season my best friend and I decided that we needed to go on a "road trip" with the Ducks. Once we saw that Calgary was the last game of the season it seemed only obvious we make that our destination. Once Edmonton and Vancouver were in the picture, it was set. [Ed. Note: I did this too in 2009-10. Best. Vacation. Ever.]

I wont bore you with any of the details of these games as I’m sure you saw them all. Wait - you mean you didn’t get to watch the Ducks in Edmonton? You missed Nick Bonino’s high flying stick work where he caught his stick out of the air like a baton? Shame!

Below are some pictures, stories, tips and fun tid-bits from my amazing vacation. I won't rub it in too much, but you definitely should have been there! "No Worries", you'll be there next time! (Right after the excessive use of the word - or sound "eh?", Canadians love the phrase, "no worries").

First up...Vancouver, eh!

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I love lists – I make them for everything. Things like my daily routine, my weekend "to-do" outline, what to bring on a road trip (usually a short list containing: badass playlist, clean underwear, toothbrush, deodorant, phone charger…etc) and the very important list for all of the things needed for a "successful end of the hockey season vacation to the motherland".

The first task in making a list, a lesson handed down to me by my grandfather, is to write at the top of your list, "MAKE LIST". You feel accomplished when, after completing said list, you can immediately cross something off. Productivity is key here. Plus, sometimes the list really is the most important part of any journey.

So, here it is – the first six things written on my list for my upcoming vacation to western Canada to watch the Ducks finish out the season. Feel free to add any suggestions in the comments!

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It is a really good thing the Ducks are out of this race because they sure played like they were. Sadly, it's how the rest of this season will go. The team will be in attendance but they'll simply go through the motions. I don't know if it's really worth it to be so critical of the Ducks at this point, but that's what we do best here at Anaheim Calling.

But, if there was something to be critical of in Anaheim's match-up with the Boston Bruins, it might be the no-goal debacle. A real solid slap in the face to the team after a hard working battle that resulted in a call straight out of the 90's. When I saw that the refs were all huddled together in their protective little semi-circle near the scorers box, I assumed they were reviewing the play for evidence that Andrew Cogliano had kicked in the puck. Believe me when I say I was genuinely shocked when the goal was called off for interference. No one was happy. No one. Bruce Boudreau was very vocal with reporters after the game and has once again won another piece of my heart. He's definitely learning that the respect level is far different here on the west coast.

I just really hate it when Marty Turco gets his way.

Unfortunately (or, perhaps, fortunately) that one goal won't change the Ducks season. But, just in case you're curious, it does seem that Monday's games featuring the Sharks and the Kings could put the official dagger in Anaheim's season. I can definitely say I'm glad the dagger came in late March rather than early February.

October, here we come!

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There are only about two weeks remaining in the regular season until the serious Ducks hockey withdrawals begin and I find myself in hard plastic seats at Angel stadium against my will. Until that day, I graciously appreciate every last game for the Ducks. Just recently I was lucky enough to enjoy a game with Jen and Arthur. A few ideas arose from the game, and they are on the weekly hot topics!

Beauchemin: Easy A

The Ducks should consider themselves lucky to have gotten Francois Beauchemin back in their arsenal after stupidly letting him go the first time around. Of course it took Beauch some time to get back in the Anaheim groove and find himself gelling nicely within the Ducks system (and a new coach to play for), but it is definitely obvious we are seeing a different type of player in Beauchemin these days. Not because of a new contract or because of Bruce Boudreau, but because he’s a Veteran now. In his previous stint with the Ducks he was under the likes of Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer. He, essentially, knew his "place". But these days, Francois Beauchemin is a different type of player on the ice. His confidence is beaming and his leadership is evident in his demeanor. I think it would be a great addition to the growing leadership of this team if, in the future, we saw Beauchemin proudly sporting an "A" on his chest. He deserves it.

Deadly Sevens

Face it - you’re wearing the number 7 in Anaheim…you’re bound to be a bad puck handler. Let’s not get started on the Shane Hnidy thing and you really don’t want to know what I thought about the short lived experiment of Brendan Morrison. Ugh! When Andrew Cogliano stepped off the plane and decided to wear the doomed number 7, I secretly hoped he would be the guy to break the curse. Not so much. Now, I’m not trying to throw the guy under the bus, but just watch him closely here in the final few games of the season and tell me he’s the guy you want handling the puck through the neutral zone.

Hey! Hey! Deslauriers!

Is Jeff Deslauriers getting starts because the Ducks are cooked for the season? Or perhaps it’s because Jonas Hiller is a wee bit…exhausted?! I’m sure 30+ straight games for one goaltender can be exhausting and Hiller is gladly deserving of a day off here and there. However, this begs us to ask the question…are the Ducks "slyly" trying to slide a little in the standings for a better pick? Sure, they’re going to tell the fans and the media that they want to finish the season strong and win with class, but are they really looking for the team to shoot the puck a little wide (just like in the previous 70 games of the season), miss a few defensive assignments and maybe give the starts to their back-up goalie for a few games this season to rest their big guy and pick up a great first round pick?

Sign the Petition

With one game against the San Jose Sharks remaining in the season series, and even if the Ducks were to lose, I think it would be safe to say this was one match-up the Ducks were able to dominate this season. From their back-to-back wins against the Sharks at the beginning of the season and their recent win on Monday night, the Ducks definitely found the intensity they needed when it came to playing against San Jose. Wish they could have found that fire power against the Kings. Anyway, that brings me to the petition…I think the Ducks should request that EVERY team in the NHL is to wear Sharks jerseys next season when they play against Anaheim. Just a thought.

GO DUCKS!!!

With the season winding down, and the WAY in which it is leaving us…there is no time to waste, straight to the therapy sessions! Plus, I need advice!

Iron Man

Saku Koivu just played in his 1,000 career NHL game. The feat isn’t necessarily impressive as countless of other players have reached that mark, but for Koivu it holds a special meaning all on it’s own! Had Koivu not been sidelined while battling cancer, he probably would have reached this milestone long ago. The simple fact that he was able to get to this point in his career is just as special and it means a lot to both he and the fans. I think a small bit of congratulations is in order, don't you? It’s wonderful to see such happy moments for any player who's overcome such odds.

Teemu Selanne – That’s Mr. 19 to you

This past week saw Teemu Selanne pass his boyhood idol Jari Kurri to become the 19th all time leading NHL scorer and highest ranking Finnish born player. No one would dare question his place in the Hall of Fame and I don’t even want to cover the topic of whether or not he’s going to come back for another year (yawn). So here’s the question…11 games remain for Anaheim, Selanne sits at 1,400 career points, next on the horizon is Dale Hawerchuk with 1,409. Does Selanne nestle himself into 18th? Can he surpass Doug Gilmore at 1,414 and go for 17th? Go Teemu!

Justin Schultz –

Get me a plane ticket, I’ll fly out there and get the kid to sign the damn contract myself.

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Well it seems as though these group therapy sessions might have come at just the right time. Damn those St. Louis Blues are good, aren't they? They made some big moves in the off-season and it clearly paid off for them. Maybe the Ducks will have the glory of saying the same thing next season, but until then...here's a shoulder for you to cry on. The therapist is in.

Brookbankin!

My uncle claims to have loved Sheldon Brookbank for quite some time. Perhaps he’s forgotten a somewhat bleak season last year, but that’s okay. I won’t go so far out there to say that he’s been the best defenseman on this team, but he’s definitely been a far improved blueliner over the course of the past few months. Perhaps the major change has come along with the coaching staff, but the fact of the matter is, Brookbank LOOKS like a more confident player on the ice. He’s been far more responsible and therefore more valuable as well. He’s taken some courses in accuracy and now the guy has three goals for crying out loud. Who saw that coming?! It’s a contract year for the defenseman and that leaves us open to the question, sign him to another inexpensive two-year contract to satisfy a desperate aging player, or let him find employment elsewhere?

MVPerry?

There is no doubt that last season we saw Corey Perry have what was a career season and one that has undoubtedly changed the opinions of many. Recently a Red Wings fan stopped by Anaheim Calling to leave a comment on how the perceptions have changed amongst some fans of the league in how they view Perry and his overall game. I’m sure the number of Ducks fans who would ship Perry off are few and far between, especially after last seasons most valuable performance, but what are your opinions of this new Perry? Is he in fact a different player, or is he just in better control of his game? Better yet, we will see another MVP performance from him in the future, or was that as good as it’s going to get? I personally feel this new Perry began to emerge as he was trying to find his way onto the Olympic team in 2010…and thankfully, it has stuck with him ever since.

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It was about 1/4 of the way through the second period when I said outloud, "If we look back in two weeks and say that the 14th place Edmonton Oilers were the team to dash our hopes, I'm going to be effin pissed!"

Thankfully, despite their ridiculous desire to not play at all during the second period of the game, Anaheim managed to eek out just enough offense to get the job done this evening and keep the drive for the post season alive.

With a bit of persistence and some high flying tricks, the big boys responded the way we need them to in order to secure a victory. While it's possible that the requirement to play every game as if it were a game 7 scenario might be taking a toll on the team, they're still showing just enough heart to get the job done.

That ketchup bottle isn't empty yet.

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What a weekend. The highs and lows of being a sports fan. They never get old, do they? My mom, she doesn’t get it. Whenever my dad and I were upset about our team losing a game she’d always say, "They can’t win them all. It wouldn’t be any fun if they did." I don’t need to tell you but she’s obviously not a sports fan.

No, I suppose they can’t win them all, but right now, it is exactly what we’re hoping for. And little does she know, it would feel freaking incredible if they did. It is all part of the wonderful things that come out of watching live sports - you just never know what is going to happen. You are going to see something you’ve never seen before - guaranteed. Amazing things, like Teemu Selanne cementing his place in history or, lately, Sheldon Brookbank scoring goals.

As Ducks fans, we’ve gotten to witness something pretty fantastic. This team seemingly didn’t stand a chance just two months ago. I definitely had written the season off for worse and wasn’t expecting them to be anywhere near the discussion of the post season.

With only 16 games remaining and every point crucial, the Ducks find themselves with a great opportunity at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers. Edmonton, cemented firmly in 14th, is probably looking at another quality draft pick in their future. Meanwhile, the Ducks are looking for a sucker of a team to allow them to score a few goals and get on a roll to finish out this final month of hockey. Which is exactly what we need tonight - someone, preferably the guys who get paid the big bucks, to score some damn goals.

I really hope this team invested in a Costco sized bottle of ketchup.

GO DUCKS!!!

[Ed. Note: Welcome to our first installment of Group Therapy, a weekly discussion of topics most relevant to the devoted Ducks fan. It's like Coffee Talk without coffee and Linda Richmond, but still like buttah!]

With all that has been going on with the Ducks over the course of the last few months there are definitely plenty of hot topics to discuss. So I thought here would be a great place to kick start the conversation and allow all of you fine readers the chance to get your likes and gripes off of your chest! Let’s discuss, shall we?

Line it up!

Bruce Boudreau has shown us some interesting line combinations over the last few weeks. Regardless of the never ending mishmash, it seems as though it must be working. I mean, who can really argue with winning (up until recently)? With the return of Devante Smith-Pelly, it has brought about another flurry of combinations. Since Smelly’s return, or perhaps due to an undisclosed issue, we’ve missed out on some Matt Beleskey and what I found to be a very threatening and successful 3rd line. We’ve all witnessed the Bobby Ryan shuffle under Randy Carlyle and it seems with Boudreau not much will change. Ryan is still one of the first to find a new set of linemates when things begin to look bleak. Whip out your eff bombs and start lining ‘em up – here’s what I’m proposing:

Smith-Pelly – Getzlaf – Perry

Ryan – Koivu – Selanne

Beleskey – Bonino – Cogliano

Blake – Pelley – Hagman

I think the best part of the BB system is that he always rolls 4 lines. This may mean a big 4th line payday, but it adds value to the 7, 8 or more minutes those bottom two lines will see on any given night. Also, something to consider, the Ducks were HOT without one Smelly in the lineup, since he’s returned things haven’t looked as good (2-0-3). Coincidence or an unfortunate stumble?

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Yea yea yea, go ahead, blame me all you want. It’s not my fault that Steven Stamkos is good (Ed. Note: Sure, he's good. Just don't say it!). I guess it’s a good thing that my list of enjoyable players not playing for the Ducks is very short.

I’m sure this won't be good for an overall recap considering I only saw the final twenty minuets of the game, but you saw the game, you don’t need me to tell you what happened. The Ducks played much of the third period like a team desperate from being eliminated from the playoffs. A team with that much heart would normally win games. Of course that team needs to play the entire game in that manner.

It all goes back to consistency that we know the team is capable of. If we’re going to take any positives from this game, it’s knowing that this insane road trip of epic proportions is almost over. Thankfully the Ducks have been quite successful up until this point. More importantly, they’ve shown how to battle from behind, how to take a lead and hold onto it, and that they’re not going to give up when the going is tough.

If this game showed the Ducks one thing, it’s that giving up an early lead is deadly to their success. There isn’t much time left to learn these lessons, hopefully this is the last time they need to be reminded.

Good:

- The fight. Seeing Anaheim battle the way they did in the final period of the game is so much different from the team we saw a few short months ago. This team is clearly going to fight until the very end despite Tampa Bay’s early lead.

- Saku Koivu was easily one of the best players on the ice for Anaheim. Hustle, backchecking and pressure. More games like this from Koivu are going to be necessary.

- The return of Devante Smith-Pelly will hopefully be a much needed boost in the future. That kid is all passion on the ice.

- The effort was there. The Ducks were unfortunate in facing a goalie who didn't necessarily play well, but was simply lucky much of the time.

- That goal by Bobby Ryan was enough to make me watch it a few more times...I'll have more on him below.

- Outshooting Tampa Bay 30-16 is a great sign for both the teams offense and defense.

Bad:

- Outshooting Tampa Bay 30-16 is scary when the final score is a losing effort.

- It doesn’t matter how good the power play looks, if you aren’t scoring, it’s meaningless.

- I'm not sure what's wrong with Cam Fowler, but it seems to be getting worse.

- Back to Bobby Ryan. I know a lot of us (minus Robby) are scratching our heads about this guy and I can't help but feel like Ryan's goal is to do it all himself. I'd love to see him play more cooperative hockey; this is, after all, a team sport.

Ugly:

- I warned each and everyone of you about the possible effects of allowing me to do this game day post. I’m just saying.

- Losing isn’t an option. Having the opportunity to get much needed points and missing those chances is not going to cut it. The Ducks must seize every opportunity.

First things first - Steven Stamkos is on my list of favorite players throughout the NHL. I apologize in advance for any disastrous outcomes this may (Ed. Note: WILL) cause.

Tonight's battle of the flesh colored beards is on, and I'm very excited about it. While Stamkos does make my list of players not on Anaheim's roster that I do enjoy, his rank is still far down the list to the likes of those such as Teemu Selanne, Cam Fowler, Francois Beauchemin and, most importantly, Corey Perry.

So let the battle begin! It seems as though Stamkos is hell bent on taking that goal scoring title this season, but I have a feeling Perry is going to put up quite a fight to the very end. And if history has any intention of repeating itself, now would be the time for a swift change of the tide.

Let's consider this: the Ducks have 23 games remaining. Last season, in the final 23 games, Stamkos scored 5 goals. Five. Yes, FIVE. If he finishes this season in the same manner, he'll end up with 45 goals. Same outcome as last season.

In the final 23 games of last season, Perry racked up 20 goals. Twenty. TWENTY. Another 20 goals would bring Perry's total this season to 49.

Now, I'm not willing to make any wagers on this outcome, I'm just saying, we've seen it happen before. Can history repeat itself? Why not?

Here's the thing, I may like Steven Stamkos as a player just fine and dandy...but when it comes down to it- I freakin love me some Corey Perry. So if you've got to ask which player I want to see lighting the lamp tonight, clearly you're bonkers.

Tampa Bay as a whole has had some ups and downs this season and they're definitely not enjoying sitting firmly in 11th in the East. Just for kicks, Anaheim would be ahead of them in the standings inching ahead by two points (Anaheim-60, Tampa Bay-58).

For two teams struggling to move ahead in the final months of this NHL regular season, not to mention boasting two of the NHL's elite, this game might prove to be quite the match-up.

GO PERRY!

GO DUCKS!!!

[Editor's Note: I held this back until the FSN Replay edition of the game aired, so as not to spoil the results for anyone, and then I remembered SBN always posts the scores to the front page]

I sent Jen a text message after I got the twitter update informing me that Sheldon Brookbank, yes, Sheldon Brookbank scored the game tying goal.

“Sure hope you’re representing well for all of us!”

Her reply was priceless, “HAHAHAH! I’ve done A LOT of yelling at Getzlaf.”

She then proceeded to send me another text filled with a few expletives, so I’ll just leave it at that.

I'll be honest, it's Friday night and while I'm not out partying it up in NYC like some people we all know and love, I am going to go out and party it up in good ole So-Cal.

So here's my thoughts on this game in a nutshell:

I'm thrilled you picked up a point in overtime, but get your power play act together!

For your viewing pleasure, here's some GBU!

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***News Flash***

Anaheim Calling's Editor arrested for tackling New Jersey's Zach Parise during teams's pre-game skate.

Ok, that's not a real headline or breaking news...yet. But keep your eyes open. Jen is partying drinking stalking Parise relaxing on a nice trip to the Big Apple this week and has the awesome pleasure of taking in the Ducks game at the Rock this evening.

Like I said, keep your eyes open.

Anyway, Anaheim continues to roll right along on this brutal road trip. It's taken some overtime, some last minute heroics, some unusual suspects, a Hart and a Flash, but to this point they've managed to pull through with a 3-0-1 record and 7 points.

Quite a contrast to the road trip early on that saw them go 1-3-3, eh?

Each game poses a new challenge. What will the Ducks look like to start the game? Will the power play figure their crap out? When all else fails, who will have the magic touch? Will Jonas Hiller continue to stand tall? What record will Teemu Selanne surpass next?

Of course there is the opposition to consider as well. In this case, New Jersey is far from the team they were last year. Ilya Kovalchuck is actually scoring (25-31=56 points), that fine (Ed. Note from Arthur mocking Jen: Fiiiiine) Parise fella is healthy (21-28=49 points) and the team is actually in a playoff battle, currently 6th in the East, 32-20-4=68 points.

Thankfully, the Ducks are in prime position for a new challenge each and every game. They've reached the halfway point of this exhausting trip and this next game will get them over the hurdle.

We're counting on you, Jen. Parise won't know what hit him!

By the way, if you're watching the scoreboard tonight and looking ahead to what teams to "boo" more (I know, as a Ducks fan, you'd never cheer for another team...but you'd definitely "boo" one more), the Colorado Avalanche sit just 3 points ahead of Anaheim heading into their match-up against Edmonton. So..."Boo Avs!"

GO DUCKS!!!

Just a little something to pass a non Ducks game day...

This past weekend, my bestie and I went to an Ontario Reign game. The tickets were a birthday gift she had given to me back in November and something we had both been looking forward to attending since then. The both of us, having grown up within 10 miles of the arena, were excited to check out the facility. Citizens Business Bank Arena is surprisingly small with approximately 9,700 seats for hockey and very cozy inside. We had great seats at center ice which provided for a nice view of the entire arena...and offered up some fabulous gems.

So, here's a bit of the fun from the game on Saturday evening...

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This game was the "tests of all tests" according to Bruce Boudreau.

Good news for Anaheim is that they passed. Maybe by the skin of their teeth, but a passing grade is all that they need.

There is so much to be said about this Anaheim team right now. I’d probably have even more to say if I didn’t have a full time job that prevents me from getting home before 6:00pm and therefore causing me to miss 3 of the last 4 games, but whatever.

What I have seen, read or heard tells me one thing: this team isn’t giving up, and they’re doing it quite well. The last two games are a great example of the Anaheim experience. Much like the way this season started, the Ducks often find themselves behind, trailing, trying to get back into the game. However, unlike the early parts of the season, the Ducks are now playing and battling with fire. They’re pushing each other to the limit and they’re responding. As a TEAM.

True to form, players like Corey Perry and Teemu Selanne prove time and again why they’re the elite players in this league. Most importantly, when players like Ryan Getzlaf are racking up points with consistency, third and fourth liners like Matt Beleksey and Niklas Hagman are contributing, you know things are going well.

When SK admits that Jonas Hiller has been a crucial part of this Anaheim stretch...well, you know things must be somewhat remarkable.

So, without further ado...

Good:

-I’m sorry, but winning isn’t good. Not right now. No...winning is INCREDIBLE. It’s fantastic and it makes me one happy Ducks fan.

-Pittsburgh isn’t just one of the hottest teams in the league right now, they’ve got one of the hottest players in the league right now as well. I’d recommend looking at the score sheet to see who that player is, but alas, the Ducks were able to keep Evgeni Malkin scoreless. Super awesome, super important!

-Jonas Hiller is rolling. Back to back starts didn’t seem to waver his game.

-Need some proof of that "fail to quit" attitude? How about a goal from Corey Perry with less than a minute in the 2nd period.

-Even better, Matt Beleskey, who was probably one of the players of the game. Stuck on the ice for MINUTES, Beleksey doesn’t quit and gets the puck to the legend allowing Selanne to score the game winner. Incredible.

-Speaking of Selanne, as we do so often around here, he’s now got his 656th goal of his career, tying him with Brendan Shanahan for 12th place. He’s got 1,392 points, 21st all time passing Brett Hull.

-Winning on the road? Yes please!

Bad:

-Just imagine, you’d be less likely to suffer from a heart attack if the Ducks power play would connect a few times, yea?

-I fear when these "late to show" games kick their butts. The Ducks can’t afford to sit on their heels until the second period so regularly.

Ugly:

-Another effin eastern conference game on Friday means SK watches on delay again. Stupid me for not being a billionaire and having to work a full time job. Lame.

"If they played the whole game like this, we wouldn't be watching overtime."

I had the wonderful fortune of bringing along some old co-workers to this evening's match-up, and that gem came from my friend about midway through the overtime session when it seemed that either team was bound to score. I couldn't have agreed more by the statement.

I don't understand the mentality of this team and their desire to wait until the last minute...or the end of the season, to start playing with fire. Ha!

Needless to say, this game seemed so chaotic to me. An overly bouncy puck, crazy line combinations and odd rushes seemed to dictate the odditiy of it all. It wasn't until Luca Sbisa had the grave misfortune of head butting (apparently this guy has no regard for keeping his pretty little face intact), that I was convinced this game wouldn't end normally. Ultimately, this game took a lot of out of me. I won't even pretend to analyze what we witnessed other than to say, at least we got that damn extra point.

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I’m not really sure at what game we’re all supposed to start panicking throwing in the towel giving up on the season looking ahead to October, but I think we’re really close.

If you’re on the side of those who feel the Ducks have a chance for the postseason, this game might be one of the most important…and then Wednesday’s game, Friday in Detroit to start a super long road trip, the month of March…you get the idea.

The question is, do THEY get the idea? I know we’ve been hearing them talk about the importance of winning since the beginning of the season and thanks to their fine efforts in the month of January, they’ve given us a spark of hope that I don’t think many were prepared to receive. However, it is hard not to question the stability of these Ducks after that awesome overtime loss to Columbus on Friday.

For those of you who are hoping for Anaheim to continue on with their amazingly disgusting brand of hockey, a potentially earth shattering trade deadline and the chance at a super high draft pick, well then I guess you’ll be secretly hoping for a Ducks loss at the hands of the Calgary Flames this evening.

No matter what destiny you feel this team is headed for, the positive aspect for both arguments is that this season is still undecided. Barely. Bruce Boudreau claims he does the math everyday and that both he and the team still want to win. I suppose we’ll have to see how true that statement is over the course of the next few games.

Here’s what I want. I want to finish this season feeling like the team gave it their all. I’ll have to disregard the first half of the season when reflecting on this year, of course, but I want to feel like when all is said and done I can say, "you know, they really fought for it out there." I want to feel like, even though this team isn’t the best team, they actually tried to be better than they were. They showed up to battle and, even though they were bested, they were still a group to be proud of. Yes, January made this bitter pill of a hockey season so much easier to swallow, but I’m really hoping the Ducks can still add a bit of sugar.

GO DUCKS!!!

*Looks around tentatively* Is it okay to talk about this? I sure hope so because I’m going to do it anyway (forgive me Hockey Father).

I know they probably needed it - and I’m sure the time off helped much of the team to recuperate from what was a considerably disgusting first half of the season - but damn…did that All Star break come at the wrong time, or what?

That really leads us to the obvious question that is on everyone’s mind: Can the Ducks keep it rolling after a week away from the rink? If ever we were looking for a test to see if this team has truly become what the month of January showed us, now is the time. On the other hand, it might be possible that the 8-2-1 record was simply a tease. Something to keep Ducks fans hoping and praying that the previous months of embarrassment were simply to test our faithfulness to the organization. While I’m sure some fans have jumped ship and completely given up on this season, now is when the real test of faith and determination kicks in. You know, that whole "dedication" motto they’ve been forced to shove down our throats for the past year.

If this means that every game on the calendar is circled with a fat red marker to indicate do-or-die, so be it. If that means that Jonas Hiller has to continue to play lights out hockey, I’ll be sure to continue to dislike the guy. If it means that only a healthy Jason Blake in the lineup is the key to success, I’ll personally take on the role as his bodyguard and start blocking shots for him (be weary, Blake is questionable for tonight’s game and therefore this will be all my fault). If it means Corey Perry only plays with a mini-stick for the rest of the season…awesome. And if it means Bob Murray has to go on another tirade of threatening to trade every player on the roster, do it!

So, where do they stand coming into this final run? The Ducks have 43 points in 48 games played (17 of those points came in 2012 alone). They’re 13th in the West, right behind tonight’s opponent the Phoenix Coyotes who’ve got 52 points in 50 games. The 8th and final playoff spot is currently being held by the Colorado Avalanche who have 55 points in 49 games. The bottom line is that this season isn’t a runaway for anyone, not yet.

When it comes down to it the team knows the whole idea of a post season is a long shot yet not completely out of the question. They realize it’s up to them to make the playoffs a reality. Maybe they needed the month of January to knock some sense into their brains, to realize the pressures of a February trade deadline and a season running out of track means stepping into high gear.

I really hate to beat you with a dead horse (yes, that is the hilariously disturbing yet incredibly incorrect use of that phrase as delivered to me from my bestie), but losing isn’t an option.

GO DUCKS!!!

[Ed. Note: Throughout the All-Star Break, the Anaheim Calling team will be giving their mid-season reports. Next up, Ms. SK and a possible chick fight.]

First of all - I just want to state if there was ever to be a serious disturbance to the magumbo around here, you can blame Jen for this one. She's making us pick these players and make these predictions which only means that things are going to get all whacky and crazy out there on the ice for a while. You know, like the first half of the season. Come to think of it, she made us make predictions then too!!! *shakes fist* damn you, Jen! [Ed. Note: MUAH! My plan is coming together beautifully...]

MVP - first half of season

Teemu Selanne. What, you thought I was going to pick Jonas Hiller? Please. I think we'd all be hard pressed to come up with someone other than Teemu Selanne. He's the only player so far this season that has been somewhat consistent. He's leading the team in points (45), assists (30) and is the only player to put together a legitimate scoring streak. He's 41 playing like he's 14, and through it all he's never given up or given in. I never thought that amongst the players on this team he'd be the guy I'd point to as an early MVP, but so be it.

Runner-Up. I'll skip my obvious Corey Perry (Christ) selection here and go with Francois Beauchemin. He's been a silent runner this season and a much improved defenseman under new coach Bruce Boudreau. There were times when it felt as if he was the Ducks best defensemen, and that really mattered when Lubomir Visnovksy was out of the line up. It seems that even with the recent turn of events, Beauchemin has stepped up and become better and more valuable. He plays in all and every situation on the ice because he's been smart and reliable. He's a hard worker and clearly ready to step in front of a bullet to protect his teammates...or the scoreboard. They should give him a contract extension. Oh wait...

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The Ducks are on a 5-0-1 run, but, I, for one, am definitely not getting excited about it. I have many reasons that point to this, the Magumbo (or whatever you all call it) and October are two brilliant examples.

First off, I'm definitely not going to go on a tangent of all the wonderful things that Anaheim has been up to recently, I'll leave that to you in the comments. I'm also not about to get my hopes up on a win streak when we've seen the Ducks fall to their own disgusting habits before.

I still watch every game with a bit of hesitation, especially when it seems the Ducks are weakened with just a few moments of pressure from the opposition. I'll admit, when the other team scores my head drops and my expectations for a full recovery are diminished greatly. I still have the visions of November's Ducks dancing in my head.

Have there been positives to draw upon? Oh, yes, definitely. But I can't bring myself to talk about them. Are the players, lines and defensemen awakening and taking ownership of their roles and expectations? Again, possibly, but I won't talk about those individuals here.

Prepare for the worst, expect the bad, be shocked as all hell when it isn't awful.

So, instead, lets glorify how great the Phoenix Coyotes have been thus far. Already 2-1 against Anaheim this season, overall their record is practically the opposite of what the Ducks are boasting with 49 points (21-18-7). They're battling it out in the Pacific Division like champs, not far behind San Jose and Los Angeles, and only 1 point behind Dallas. They're 11th in the Western Conference, but that's only 2 points out of 8th. Mike Smith (who?) has done wonders for them in net. Most importantly, they're struggling this month and hungry to pick up a win.

Here's an obvious coaching tip, don't get so comfortable Anaheim...you're going to have to battle hard for the rest of the season.

Now that we've seen you win, there are no excuses.

It’s such a shame the Ducks lost this game in overtime. For 60 minutes Jonas Hiller was...wait for it...incredible. Yeah! That came from me. From the very beginning of the game he was tested. While he wasn’t overly pummeled with shots, he definitely saw quality scoring opportunities.

Jen, who’s still on East coast time [Ed. Note: back in So Cal, my brain, however, is not], had this to say about the game via email, "They played so well. I kind of don’t feel mad about this."

I can’t argue with her. For the first time in a long time, I felt like Anaheim was out on the ice to win a game. They didn’t look like the scrambled mess of eggs that usually shows up to play. More importantly, they were looking confident and solid ON THE ROAD.

I’ve got a few more thoughts in the GBU:

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[Ed. Note: All weekend, the AC staff will be trading the same five core players for another team(s) core player(s) of equal value. Thanks for forcing us to write this, Bob Murray.]


I just wanted to state that I am completely disgusted we are even doing this activity. Not because I think it’s a bad idea - it’s definitely fun - but because I find it revolting that the Ducks are so bad that it has come to us playing these types of games. (Which will likely turn into a twist of reality for someone, probably sooner than later.) Dammit, Anaheim…what is your problem?!

A trade for a trade, eye for an eye. I wonder if it would be breaking the rules to trade Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry AND Bobby Ryan for the Sedin Twins. Not ok? Fine, lets just throw in Ryan Kessler so that it’s 3 for 3. DONE!

Cam Fowler for Jordan Eberle

I had a hard time coming up with someone that I thought would constitute a fair trade for Fowler. So I went with someone who I thought was going to continue to blossom just as we, or any one, should expect from the youngster. Fowler is definitely struggling this season, but what player aside from that 41 year-old is actually doing anything worth wild? We’ve seen what Fowler is actually capable of, and there is no doubt in my mind he will only get better. I think the same goes for Eberle and, if I had to chose an Edmonton youngster, I’d pick him over that pompous Taylor Hall any day. Plus, I have a thing for that crazy gapped tooth smile he’s got. Sue me.

Corey Perry for Steven Stamkos

With all of that blindingly white/blonde facial hair - those two are easily swappable. The way I look at it, if we’re comparing players here, there is a chance the Ducks might be getting the better end of the stick. I love Perry don’t get me wrong (he’s my God), but since Steven Stamkos has busted through the wall of talent, he’s yet to miss a stride. Last years leading goal scorer swapped out for the next best goal scorer? Sounds like a win to me. Plus, Stamkos has rosier cheeks is a better skater.

Bobby Ryan for Shea Weber

I wanted to find a bona fide left wing to replace Ryan - who I will still claim is a right wing until I’m blue in the face - but I went with a desperate to fill a hole on the blue line instead. Plus, I’ll be surprised if any of us find a way to NOT trade for Shea Weber. The guy is a beast through and through, and we all witnessed the Ducks fall to he and the Nashville Predators last season. Any team who adds Weber is instantly better in a heartbeat, no doubt. Plus, the Predators would be getting Ryan who is slightly younger and possesses that offensive output that Nashville always seems to be looking for.

Ryan Getzlaf for Scott Hartnell, Henrik Sedin, Ryan Carter

What Getzlaf are we trading here? The Getzlaf that was drafted and played through the 2007-08 season? The Getzlaf that he COULD be with a bit of effort and desire? Or the Getzlaf we have right now? If I’m trading the Getzlaf of yesterday, Scott Hartnell seems a fair swap. [Ed. Note: Written before Friday's game.] If I’m trading the Getzlaf in my fantasy world, send Henrik Sedin over ASAP. If we’re trading the Getzlaf of right now…I hear Ryan Carter is with New Jersey, and he’d be an upgrade (that’s not meant to be a slap in the face to Carter - I was a big fan).

H for M, Jonas Hiller for Ryan Miller

When those rumors started flying around, my brain started flying with the thought of it. Right now I’d take my 5’0’’ tall best friend for Hiller. Dan Ellis for Hiller would also be a great swap (DO IT)! The fact is, Hiller’s got some health issues, and so does Miller, but both were also at the top of their game just a short time ago. It’s possible that a change in scenery might help both out a bit.

Bob Murray for SK

I’m serious. I think my mom could do a better job than that guy

...um...

I guess this is what happens when the Ducks win - I end up pretty much speechless.

Lately, while watching the Ducks, my eyes tend to go through the motions. You know, like the players do. I see one bad turn over and my eyes generally dart to the center of the ice where I see an opposing player blasting to the lose puck for a breakaway. My hockey eyes are stuck on repeat. Thankfully, they gave me something new to look at tonight. It took a good 45 minutes to flip the switch, but it finally happened.

Then, Bobby Ryan made me get out of my seat for the first time in weeks and the crowd woke up for the first time this season.

I wonder though, is this the last time we'll see the "big line" be BIG? Did we really see Ryan Getzlaf shoot AND score? Did Ryan undress another defenseman with those moves? Did Corey Perry's relentless battle for the puck finally win out?

Is it too little, too late? Will it happen again? Was this the last hurrah? I guess it doesn't matter if they win or lose, the Ducks always leave me with questions. Unfortunately, I have a feeling I'll be going through the motions again soon enough.

But damn, that Ryan goal was hot.

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One of the things about this season that really peeves me is that I’ve watched practically zero hockey outside of the Ducks. Wait, I take that back. I saw the Winter Classic and the 24/7 shows – which really don’t count for much in terms of hockey. I’m not sure what crazy life events have kept me from watching extra credit hockey; rather, it probably has to do with the fact that I’ve been avoiding the NHL network like the plague. I blame you, Anaheim.

With that being said, I’ve yet to see a second of Islanders hockey. However, I know one thing is for certain…they’re better than the Ducks. Who isn’t - except for Columbus…until Sunday? So I can’t really tell you what to expect from the Islanders tonight. They’ll probably play hard, attack aggressively, organize their defense efficiently and do what the rest of the teams in the NHL do when they play the Ducks – win.

Plus, I think they’ve still got that crossed eye kid, John Tavares.

The sad thing is, I can’t really tell you what Anaheim will look like tonight either. If I had to guess, I’d say Bruce Boudreau is trying to piss me off and will start Jonas Hiller (although now that I’ve guessed that, they’ll tweet that Dan Ellis will be making a start, fingers crossed). [Ed. Note: "I suppose" was BB's response when asked if Hiller would start tonight.] The power play will get their chances, but to no avail. The penalty kill will get entirely too much practice and the shot differential will be disgustingly in New York’s favor until the later half of the third period when the Ducks become desperate.

Remarkably, this is how the entire season has gone and it has left me feeling comfortable. I have no expectations one way or another. I’ve always been a pessimist at heart and this team just allows that to shine. Prepare for the worst, hope for the best…get exactly what you came for – a team that is 10-22-6. Who knows, these Ducks just might knock your socks off. Probably not.

But, as always, GO DUCKS!!!

[Ed. Note: Every day this week, the AC Staff and a few Duck Buddies will be giving each other Ducks related Secret Santa gifts. Next up, not-Saku-Koivu, Ms. SK11 and her gift to master chorale singer (and the smartest one at Battle of California), Earl Sleek.]

I was lucky enough to get the fine Mr. Earl Sleek as my secret Festivus recipient. I searched high and low for the right gift. Something that said, "Earl, you’re important to me and I want you to have something special and meaningful on this joyous occasion." I wanted Earl to know that I thought long and hard about what that perfect gift would be and I believe that I found just the thing. I wanted to make sure it was something personal and something that would come of great use to him...

A fire pit.

Now, I know, that doesn’t seem all that special or useful, except for the fact that it has been unreasonably cold here in Southern California lately, but I wanted to make sure that he’d put that fire to good use. I searched high and low to find the perfect hearth so that I could present Earl with a fine gift of blazing fire, for roasting marshmallows, or something.

I went out and got the necessities, marshmallows and skewers for grilling. But really, what I was more concerned about was the fuel with which he would burn his fire. What would get those flames glowing red hot and furious?

Regular wood? Boring. Paper? Burns too fast.

My next thought was that he should sacrifice that damn green lucky shirt he always wears to the games because we all know how LUCKY that has been. But then it hit me…that won’t brew a fire like this bad boy…

Ahhh, there’s nothing like the smell of fine synthetic fabrics burning in the evening, is there? I’ll admit, this is a purely selfish gift, as it’s definitely something Earl and I can enjoy together! Besides, I'm sure there are a bunch of things Earl would love to burn in his new fire. Ryan Getzlaf's captaincy and the Ducks 2011-12 season might be a start!

Happy Festivus, Earl!

All my love, your secret Santa, SK!

P.S. You'll have to excuse my drawings - I don't have a scanner or...drawing abilities!

(via baronvg on YouTube)

When we were presented with this project I was a bit worried that I hadn't been around long enough to appreciate the early years of Teemu Selanne. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to capture the greatness of this elite athlete on the verge of a monumental occasion in his ever inspiring career.

And then I began to write about him and it became clear; his legacy and his career, even in the short time I've been a hockey fan, would do all the talking for me. I'm simply the messenger. The great part of this portion of Selanne's career is that it is not only a chapter in it's own right, but it's an exciting one all on its own.

Selanne revamped his career in Anaheim thanks to knee surgery, an NHL Lockout, and he did it all without Paul Kariya by his side. Only Selanne could make slops into a feast. After the difficult and disappointing seasons in San Jose and Colorado, Selanne made the decision to return to Finland to have knee surgery to repair the nagging injury. The rehabilitation period would be long and tiresome, but it also came at the perfect time. The NHL, too, was resting and rehabilitating during a lengthy lockout that saw the cancellation of the 2004-05 season. Selanne nurtured his knee, signed with Anaheim once again, and in August of 2005 he came home to his happy place.

It's in Anaheim where Selanne not only thrived, but achieved the ultimate dream. Winning the Stanley Cup in 2007 will be, for many players from that team, the highlight of their career. For Selanne it will be as well, but the achievements he's accomplished since then are incredible.

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You know, there is one thing the Ducks have done well so far this season. They’ve given their fans the opportunity to develop low expectations. When you’re looking at each game as a loss waiting to happen and then the team comes out and performs better than what you were expecting, you’re automatically thrilled with any positive output they give you! This was definitely the case for me as I stepped into the Honda Center this evening.

I’m still teetering on the fence of when I’m supposed to throw in the towel on the season and when I’m supposed to hold out on hope. I don’t know when it’s going to be too late, but the Ducks did their best to prolong that tonight.

With the few Ducks wins, I feel like I come home being grateful that they didn’t give it away in the final moments. That somehow they managed to eek one out despite the way they performed on the ice. I didn’t feel like that tonight. Sure, there was that moment when they let Phoenix score a goal to bring it within one, and I definitely prepared myself for a free fall, but then the Ducks did this crazy thing that I’ve yet to see from them in a long time.

They kept playing.

It was the weirdest thing. They kept pressuring and shooting the puck. They were moving their feet and hustling to maintain possession. They were hitting and blocking shots, and even, after a 4-1 lead in the third period, they never stopped trying to score. I couldn’t believe my eyes as it happened, but it was almost as if someone informed them that there is 60 minutes to every hockey game and they were discovering the clock for the first time in their careers.

The great thing is that these same players will wake up in the morning with a very tiny reward to not find themselves dead last in the league. Hopefully that disgusting virus was a 24 hour bug and they’ve flushed it out with a nice win over their Pacific Division foes.

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