SBNation.com User Blog: SK eleven

Group Therapy: One More For The Road

SK eleven — Tue, 14 May 2013 02:56:38 -0000

Is the wound still too fresh? When does "too soon" end? I know it lasts longer than the handshake line, cause I was clearly not over it then (site previous post) and I can’t even pretend I’m over it now. But, we must go on.

So, here it is, my last rant before I ride off into the sunset with my golf clubs in hand - never to return. I hope that Jen will invite me back from time to time to participate in the snarky post editions as I would love to participate and give my "who the hell are you?" two cents. It’s just too bad I’m only retiring from blogging and not my real job.

WHAT. THE. H-E-double hockey sticks…?:

Corey Perry, please, I hope you tell ONE person that you’re glad you signed an $8+million dollar extension before the post season began. Oh, you’re "money" alright.

Jonas Hiller…hey….buddy………how……..are…….you…….? Everything………..ok……..? Moving……..a…….bit…….slow……out…..there……….Oops, and just like that another puck slips by!

Bobby Ryan, I always found the love/hate relationship with you to be exhausting, now I just find you to be exhausting. I’m sure you’ll light up the Honda Center next season…I just think it will be AGAINST Anaheim.

Bryan Allen, congratulations on not being my least favorite defenseman at the end of the season. That honor went to Sheldon Souray, who proved to be just as worthless as everyone said he would be. Apparently holding the blue-line isn’t for everyone.

Anaheim, if only you hadn’t used up all of that luck and "we had no business winning that game" good fortune from the beginning of the season, we might be having a different conversation right now. It’s a real shame too, cause, early on in this season, when you were impressive, you would have massacred that Detroit Red Wings team. Hell, you could have, but apparently someone, or many someones, turned off the switch. Next season, right?

…and finally a few thanks:

Ryan Getzlaf, for impressing the hell out of me…for a change! I feel like you were a solid player who showed us what you’re made of. I just wish it didn’t take a five year span to witness what you’re truly made of. And to think, I know you could have given us a lot more.

Viktor Fasth, for relieving those of us not on Team Hiller. I really wish you were given a chance in the post season, but I look forward to next season.

Emerson Etem, for shocking the hell out of me. I was worried you wouldn’t make it in the NHL. I honestly didn’t expect you to be more than a funny skater who was lucky enough to represent southern California. I’m thrilled to see you’re so much more than that. I really hope you continue to grow and blossom in Anaheim.

The kids, you all stepped up this season when we all worried so much about the forward depth of this team.

Francois Beauchemin, I’m sorry for the unfortunate lack of media attention dedicated to the West and for those who completely blanked when it came to Norris trophy nominations. You are an obvious leader on this team, and I hope you’re rewarded with more next season.

Teemu Selanne, for allowing me the opportunity to see a true legend in my lifetime. I’ve said it before, but this time I think this is right: It’s time for you to hang them up.

Nick Bonino, I thought they were crazy giving you a new number this season. HA! I’m so happy you proved me wrong.

Cam Fowler, while yes, you still have a long way to go, I feel these playoffs showed a lot of people that you are on your way to being an incredible offensive defenseman. I’ll remove you from my favorite player list, as I fear that put clearly put a jinx on your back and placed a dark cloud over your season. My apologies.

Jen, who really gave me an amazing opportunity to be a part of this blossoming giant here at Anaheim Calling. The freedom to express myself about hockey has been incredible and I wish Jen and the entire staff at AC the best of luck!

Now and forever, GO DUCKS!!!

Hand Shake Line: Anaheim Calling Congratulates The Red Wings, Soon-To-Be-Retired SK Is First

SK eleven — Mon, 13 May 2013 15:30:14 -0000

[Ed. Note: We'll be running these posts throughout today. And our soon-to-be-retired SK (sniff) is first. Sarcasm is high and we try to be sincere, but yeah, you know, it's not easy to do after your heart has been ripped from your chest. - Jen]

Jimmy Howard - You are the stand alone reason the Red Wings are moving forward in this series. You shut-down and completely invaded and manipulated the brain of an $8 million dollar man point-blank. Sorry to say - I don't believe anyone is slumping in the next round for ya. I'm sure the Blackhawks are much smarter and better in getting to big fat rebounds, so be weary of that. They'll probably take a page out of the Red Wings' notebook. Hell, they did a great job in capitalizing on Jonas Hiller's fat-ass second chances!

Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterburg - Even though you weren't scoring early on, you were always a threat. My hate towards the both of you is out of pure respect. In your free time, maybe you can come show some of our players the fine art of throwing the puck to the net.

Justin Abdelkader - Congratulations, you've earned the right to be passionately hated in Anaheim, I'm sure you understand. I'm not just talking about much warranted suspensions and short-handed goals - but really, I don't think you need any other reasons. I've always appreciated the opportunity to add more to the list of reasons why I don't like the Red Wings, so thank you, for adding another notch to the ever growing list.

Detroit - PS, good riddance. Enjoy the Eastern Conference, you won't be missed. Oh, right, this is supposed to be positive...Since, according to ONE person, you're not a spotlight team, congratulations on making it into the Eastern Conference where the Red Wings' name and brand of hockey can grow and flourish the way no one ever thought it possibly could. You really deserve it. (jerks)

Group Therapy: From Glow Sticks to Boning

SK eleven — Thu, 09 May 2013 23:05:39 -0000

Hey there! SK coming straight at ya with some good ole fashioned group therapy. You might not recognize me as I’ve aged, oh, about 25 years here in the past week and a half. I’ve probably gathered enough stress and pulled out enough hair to last a lifetime, but hey, that’s Ducks hockey for ya! It is absolutely amazing to me how the range of emotions between the regular season and the post season are amplified. I don’t just mean heightened, I mean a jolt of lightning to the body amplified.

I’m fairly confident –no, I’m certain – that I have woken my neighbors multiple times in the past week. Not just for cheering goals. Oh no, no, no, that would be considerate. I’m talking a range of curse words and expletives that would cause people to consider calling 911 for safety measures. I know they hear me. In the morning, before work, when we see each other in passing, they glance at me cautiously to ensure I don’t have any suspicious bruising on my face. I’m sure the loss of hair around my temples is a cause for concern, but so far, no late night knocks on the door from Social Services. And these are the 80 year old neighbors that live across the street!

Anyway, to that end, I thought we could rehash some things that have caused some hootin’ n’ hollerin’ in a (usually) peaceful home over the past week!

Corey Perry – It’s very nice of you to boost the save percentages of opposing goaltenders, but they’ll do fine without your assistance. Stop, please.

Nick Bonino – The puck likes you. I like the way you and the puck go boom boom. It’s a match made in heaven.

Daniel Winnik - Either score or forecheck...I don’t think you can do both though, right? Just work on doing one of them…very well.

Bobby Ryan - Do you even know that you are playing a game or are you just playing with yourself?

Cam Fowler – Left wing? Think about it.

Andrew Cogliano – I DO appreciate your willingness to lose a few more chickletts.

Jonas Hiller – 1, 2, 3 overtime’s the charm!

Emerson Etem – Normally my PSA would say that speed kills, but in your case, it enhances! Keep putting your head between your legs and fly, kid!

Power Play – pshhhh, scoring Power Play goals is sooooo overrated, right? Earth to Power Play…hello...hello...? Testing 1…2…..1…2….. Awww I think it's out for the summer.

Detroit Fans – I’d like to thank those of you are 100% smarter than this guy.

Damien Brunner – Lover of glow sticks.

Pavel Datsyuk – Bite me.

Group Therapy: Emotionally Scarred

SK eleven — Fri, 03 May 2013 03:52:25 -0000

The following is what I wrote between the second and third period of the game on Thursday:

Those Ducks sure do know how to give you a reality check on your range of emotions.

If you were busy celebrating on Tuesday night with buckets of beer, something tells me you were busy chucking empty beer bottles at the TV on Thursday night.

What scares me the most about this series thus far is that we're seeing what I feel is some quality hockey from the Ducks. It's not their best, but it's not their worst, for sure - and Detroit is only going to feed off Anaheim's desperation.

A huge positive has been the uprising of Teemu Selanne. He's admitted that the two game rest he got at the end of the season did him well, and I can't argue that. I definitely think these playoff games have been his best all season. Can we just sign him for the post season?

The Ducks are facing questions going forward: are they going to stay with Jonas Hiller? Now seems like a decent opportunity to make the switch. I don't think Hiller was particularly bad - he definitely got shafted by a few defensive blunders, but I also don't think he's at the top of his game either. And hell, Viktor Fasth is going to have to get some experience sooner or later. You know when would have been a great time to do that goalie change? About 20 seconds into the 3rd period - but whatever.

Defensively it sounds like the Ducks have Luca Sbisa back in their disposal, perhaps a heavy, hard hitting presence will help them going forward? After seeing the defense's ridiculous collapse in Game 2, I can't find a reason not to make this change.

Either way, going into Detroit without Mr. Momentum on Anaheim's side is going to be an outrageous mountain that I'm sure the Ducks were hoping they wouldn't have to climb. However, the Red Wings have shown us a few secrets in manipulating the game of hockey in your favor.

Ahhh, the passion of the post season. Gotta love it.

GO DUCKS!!!

Then the third period happened.

I went from screaming and yelling to screaming and cheering. I may have lost my voice after Bobby Ryan scored that goal. I definitely woke my entire neighborhood.

And then...

CRASH!

Ugh, such a disappointment.

So - take something positive from this game, Anaheim. Take the fact that you CAN fight and battle back. You CAN beat this Detroit team...you just can't give up those shitty ass goals at the beginning of periodSSSSSS!!!!!

Also, I vote that Fasth starts Game 3, that we put Sbisa back into the lineup and put Cam Fowler in on left wing! Oh, and hire me as a referee, I guarantee I can do a better job than what we've been seeing.

GO DUCKS!!!

Anaheim Ducks SWOT Analysis

SK eleven — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 04:17:04 -0000

[Ed. Note: In college, we did SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) Analyses on different topics. I thought it would be a different way to look at the two teams in the playoff series. Here is the SWOT Analysis of the Ducks by Ms. SK; the Red Wings analysis will follow later. - JN]

Strengths

Goalie Tandem: The Ducks have been blessed with a dynamic goaltending duo that can only help with their success this post-season. The ability to change netminders with the confidence that either man can step up and do the job will be crucial no matter what opponent the Ducks might face. Bruce Boudreau has expressed that the Ducks intend on using both goalies in the playoffs, something that many opponents will be envious of.
Physicality: This Ducks roster is blessed with a solid group of players fit with the make-up of both size and skill. Anaheim is at their best when they display their physicality to a maximum. When they're able to wear down the opponent, the ability to possess the puck increases and therefore so do their scoring opportunities.

Weaknesses

Power Play: Ugh. The Ducks power play has seen a dramatic decline in the past few weeks. Somehow the Ducks were able to establish a threat on their man-advantage early in the season, but that threat has somehow vanished. The difference between winning and losing might come down to one missed opportunity on the power play.
Consistency: Anaheim has shown us time and time again that 60 minutes of hockey isn't always guaranteed from this group. Unfortunately, they can't hold on for a shootout victory because they don't exist in the post season. They're going to need to finish off games in regulation and find a way to establish and maintain leads over the course of the game. Lead too early, they'll get complacent. Fall behind, they'll wait too long to find desperation and urgency needed to win. The Ducks need to establish a comfortable pace that they're able to maintain throughout the duration of the game.

Opportunities

Penalty Kill: Oddly, while one half of the special teams unit is struggling, the penalty kill seems to be a constant threat. With great pleasure, Anaheim has discovered a solid set of penalty killers who are invasive, menacing pests looking to strip a stumbling opponent of the puck. Emerson Etem has really found a role in Anaheim thanks to his pesky demeanor and great speed which has helped him bloom into a fantastic addition to the penalty killing unit. Add Andrew Cogliano, Daniel Winnik, Saku Koivu and David Steckel to the mix and the Ducks have a great opportunity to exploit even the best power play units.
Depth: While the scoring depth can be a weakness when they are in a drought, they can also be a huge asset to Anaheim's success. The Ducks have discovered that they are in fact loaded with some fantastic offensive threats that reach well into the depths of the third and fourth line. With recent call-ups of Devante Smith-Pelly and Patrick Maroon, this team has options.

Threats

Scoring depth: Much like the power play, the Ducks saw a glorious disbursement of the scoring wealth early on in the season. However, after the loss of a few players to injuries, the shuffling of lines brought upon a constant development and experimentation in line chemistry that was difficult to establish for Anaheim. The Ducks who were blessed early on with scoring depth from third and fourth liners were soon putting a lot of hope on the backs of their top guys who were also struggling to find the net. If the Ducks are exposed to a lack of scoring it will be blistering to their success going forward.
Injuries: Just like as it is for any team, injuries and the bug that bites can be damaging. The Ducks are no exception to this and they have already experienced their own fair share this season. Ryan Getzlaf and Nick Bonino are both unlikely to be 100% healed from their own ailments and the team is still practicing without Luca Sbisa. Health from here on out could be the factor that influences everything mentioned above.

Group Therapy: The Calm Before The Storm

SK eleven — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 04:52:02 -0000

There's a brief window here to really celebrate this short season, so lets do that now...

If there is one thing I can say the Ducks have earned/deserved up to this point in the NHL season it’s the Pacific Division Championship. Definitely not something I thought I’d be saying back in January, but I’ve got zero complaints on how it has turned out. Despite an ugly few weeks here towards the end of the season, the Ducks really were (are, hope they continue to be…) a dominate team in the West and the Pacific Division in particular.

Of course, I, like all of you, don’t want that dominance to end just yet. I hope that the kick start the Ducks have received from Edmonton and Vancouver will only help to propel them into the post season on a winning trend. But – I’m fearful. The Ducks had a hard time recuperating once they put a good amount of energy towards beating Chicago in late March. The "slow rebound" from the emotional high that we all witnessed made it difficult to rally against easier opponents like the questionable-to-make-the-playoff’s Detroit.

Not that it needs to be said, but this is the best time of the year for a fan of a team in the playoffs. We’ve all experienced the ugliness of this time of year WITHOUT hockey – so I’m definitely grateful! I’m looking forward to that stressful, gut wrenching, pull-your-hair-out range of emotions that come with every stupid turnover and missed defensive assignment. Sure, every post season game I lose years off of my own lifespan, but that is COMPLETELY ok with me. Live in the "now", right?! [Ed. Note: HELL YEAH! -CK]

So…here’s to you, fellow Ducks fans: to more gray hair, losing your voice while yelling at the power play unit to shoot the puck and massive amounts of alcohol to soothe the soul!

GO DUCKS!!!

GameThread: Ducks @ Oilers: Pacific Division or Bust

SK eleven — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 04:00:01 -0000

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Edmonton Oilers

Monday, Apr 22, 2013, 6:30 PM PDT
Rexall Place

TV: KDOC

Radio: AnaheimDucks.com

Your Enemy: The Copper & Blue

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Oilers: 2-0-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 17-20-7 = 41 points

Place in Northwest Division: 4th

Place in Western Conference: 13th, missing the playoffs once again.

Who's Hot? The Oilers and the golf season. They're now headed to links for the 7th straight season since losing in the finals in 2006. [Ed. Note: They now have the distinction of being the franchise with the longest playoff appearance drought. - JN]

Who's Not? I could really do without seeing Taylor Hall score another goal against Anaheim...ever, however, in 8 games played against the Ducks, he's only got two goals including his tally last night.

Numbers for Nerds: In an awesome repeat of events, Edmonton remains not hot when it comes to Anaheim who has completely dominated the Oilers in their own building having won (including last night) the last 10 meetings in Edmonton.

Enemy Dossier: Copper N Blue

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

If this is what they needed to get back on track, I'm totally ok with breaking some hearts in Edmonton just for the heck of it.

Now that the Oilers are officially out of the post season, they've probably lost a little bit of the fight that we saw from them on Sunday evening. However, it's obvious that they're a team with some work ahead of them despite their feisty play.

Then again, so is Anaheim.

Thankfully, the resurgence of Nick Bonino is alive and well. Somehow that guy is the looking like he might be the key piece that the Ducks have been missing for the previous month or so without the center in the lineup. His 2 assists since returning is a good indication that he's an important piece to the roster. Who knew!?!

One more point for the Ducks guarantees them the Pacific Division title and Edmonton seems the perfect place to grab it. Because, and trust me on this one, there isn't anything better to do in Edmonton than play a hockey game, take a few points with you, and then get the hell out of there as fast as possible.

GO DUCKS!!!

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Edmonton Oilers

Monday, Apr 22, 2013, 6:30 PM PDT
Rexall Place

TV: KDOC

Radio: AnaheimDucks.com

Your Enemy: The Copper & Blue

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Oilers: 2-0-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 17-20-7 = 41 points

Place in Northwest Division: 4th

Place in Western Conference: 13th, missing the playoffs once again.

Enemy Dossier: Copper N Blue

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

If this is what they needed to get back on track, I'm totally ok with breaking some hearts in Edmonton just for the heck of it.

Then again, so is Anaheim.

GO DUCKS!!!

Ducks Apparently Saving Effort for Playoffs

SK eleven — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 03:50:43 -0000

Final Score: Ducks 1, Flames 3

First Period Recap: Cam Fowler made it back into the lineup and Teemu Selanne took a seat as the Ducks took the ice against the 13th best team in the West.

While the Ducks definitely came out controlling the game a bit, it wasn’t until Emerson Etem took a high sticking penalty that Calgary really took any charge, and that’s pushing it. Despite a few chances, the Ducks would kill the penalty successfully.

The Ducks then got their own power play opportunity, that, of course, they didn’t capitalize on, but actually looked better than most of their opportunities as of late. The biggest scare came after Corey Perry swatted at the puck in front of Miikka Kiprusoff, eventually the puck found it’s way back to the point and Perry got nailed by a shot taking him down to the ice.

Not long after the failed power play Ben Lovejoy and Curtis Glencross made some contact knee-to-knee (Glencross went to the locker room and did not return), this was followed up by a brief tussle between Lovejoy and Mikael Backlund who came to defend Glencross. Backlund was given five minutes for fighting, two minutes for Instigating and a ten minute misconduct. Lovejoy was given five minutes for fighting and two minutes for interference. Unfortunately the ending result was no man advantage and therefore no power play practice for Anaheim.

However, just moments after the penalties were all sorted out Bryan Allen was the recipient of a high stick from Tim Jackman and the Ducks WOULD get some more practice.

Practice. That’s it. No goal, but you’re not surprised - are you?

Play resumed as normal; back and forth, back and forth until In the final minute of the period, with a gaping open net and Jonas Hiller tied up on the other side of the crease, Daniel Winnik had to step up, lay out on the ice and help to kick out the puck.

Back to the locker room, 0-0.

Second Period Recap: The Ducks could have used a little of the effort they showed in the first period again in the second, but it turned out to be all Calgary.

A shot from Lee Stempniak that bounced off the side of the net and landed right in front of Hiller and was then swatted right between the pads by Roman Horak. Calgary goes up 1-0 and the Ducks became lost and confused as ever.

Bryan Allen apparently thought he’d help to up the tally on high sticks as he gets caught and sent to the box. Calgary fed off their momentum and had a few good opportunities down low, thrilled to expose the Ducks inability to clear the puck. Once again, however, Andrew Cogliano and Etem with their pesky pressure helped to kill much of the penalty.

Later, with a big rush up the ice, Jackman took a point blank shot and got to his own rebound causing Hiller to make a great diving save.

The second period was all Calgary. Tons of chances and they definitely out-worked the Ducks who spent way too much time in their own zone.

Thankfully, Calgary’s goal early in the second was their only.

Back to the lockerroom 1-0.

Third Period Recap:Early in the third period, Sami Vatanen had a great opportunity and joined in on the play. Unfortunately he missed the pass and had to hustle back on defense where Hiller made a solid stop, thankfully.

The Ducks top line started to really get some chances. Ryan Getzlaf taking some big shots but all three of the big men were caught deep in the zone when the puck vacated and Calgary raced for the puck. Francois Beauchemin was the only defensemen back and he was beat for the puck as two Calgary players raced towards the net and Brian McGrattan slipped the puck five-hole to take a 2-0 lead.

Back on the attack again the big boys get a solid possession and a few scoring chances, with a big shot coming from Sheldon Souray that fluttered just wide of the net. These brief moments of Ducks domination seemed to always be followed by an equally dominating and threatening chunk of time from the Flames.

As always, Bruce Boudreau switched up the lines as we generally see from the coach. Usually I get frustrated when this happens, but it was time.

If there hadn’t been enough high sticks in the game, Matthew Lombardi thought he’d get his name on the list as well and took a trip to the box with about seven minutes left in the game.

The Ducks still didn't show much urgency until about the 16 minute mark of the period when Fowler took a great pass from Getzlaf in the neutral zone and sped up the left wing. A cross ice pass that deflected off of Kyle Palmieri and found Perry who netted his 14th goal of the season. It only took 56 minutes, but the Ducks found some of the life that they could have used throughout the game.

Not long after the Ducks got on the board, Palmieri had an opportunity that bounced off the boards to Perry, who swatted at it but was thwarted by Kipursoff. The crowd woke up to celebrate the great save and their longtime goaltender and motivated the Flames defense who eventually would capitalize on the Ducks vacated net to end the game 3-1.

**********

The Good: If you want a bright spot, the Ducks top line performed well and even better once Kyle Palmieri was added to the line. They were all getting some solid chances, especially late in the game when Perry scored. There was definitely a sense of effort from these guys, and it showed in the combined ten shots from Perry and Getzlaf alone.

The Bad: It only took the Ducks 56 minutes to come alive.

The Ugly: Look at the standings to get a real appreciation of the fact that the Ducks have lost two games in the past week and a half to a teams slated 26th and 29th in the league.

**********

Iceholes: It's getting pretty boring constantly finding the players who aren't performing, but at this point it's just another name and another night. To be honest, I think I might just be thankful that there isn't one player who really stuck out as awful, as, for the most part, they all seemed to have their moments in this game. The Ducks as a whole are snake bitten and they're just not playing with any sort of fire or desire. I guess they don't really have to right now, but I just hope this crappy effort their giving doesn't bleed into the post season.

Next Game: Sunday April 21, 2013, 5:30pm @ ~~team Boo Justin Schultz~~ Edmonton Oilers

GameThread: Ducks @ Flames: Finally, A Team With Nothing to Fight For

SK eleven — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 05:01:59 -0000

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Calgary Flames

Friday, Apr 19, 2013, 6:00 PM PDT
Scotiabank Saddledome

TV: KDOC

Radio: AnaheimDucks.com

Your Enemy: Matchsticks and Gasoline

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Flames: 2-0-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 17-22-4 = 38 points

Place in Northwest Division: 4th

Place in Western Conference: 13th, officially out of the playoff race

Who's Hot? Other than their name, no one in Calgary is hot right now. If there is someone to keep an eye out for, it's Curtis Glencross who's got 2 goals and an assist in the previous two meetings.

Who's Not? Alex Tanguay is third on the team with 11-16=27 points and is out day-to-day with a sprained MCL.

Numbers for Nerds: Let's hope the Flames and their defense are feeling as generous as they've been throughout the season. They're currently 29th in the league in Goals Against with 114 (3.32 avg). The Ducks could use a game like this to boost their own scoring as they're only averaging 2.75 goals a game (121 on the season).

Your Enemy: Matchsticks and Gasoline

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

This might be exactly what the Ducks need. I mean, I kept thinking that they needed a challenge, but maybe they need a team who cares less than they do. Calgary is officially out of the playoff race. I think they’ve been out of the race since February 1st and then threw in the metaphorical towel when they traded away Jarome Iginla.

No matter what reason to have inspiration for a victory, the Ducks need to find one. Even if means that they have to pump up their game plan to include embarrassing a team that has nothing left to fight for, so be it. Right now, the Ducks are their own worst enemy and the only team they're capable of humiliating at this point is themselves (just watch the overtime session from Wednesday against Columbus if you need a refresher).

Thankfully, Calgary hasn't gone through a recent bout of a goalie calling them out for sloppy play, they aren't bitter cross town rivals of ours and they aren't fighting for the 8th seed. All of those factors will definitely result in a loss for Anaheim.

This game could be a grand opportunity for the ball to get rolling...

Or it could be just as ugly as the previous few games.

PREGAME UPDATE

It looks as if Jonas Hiller will start for Ducks tonight against Calgary. Igor Bobkov has been recalled from AHL Norfolk.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 19, 2013

Appears that Viktor Fasth might be dealing with an injury issue. Took part in morning skate but left ice a little early.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 19, 2013

Fasth wasn't in dressing room when media arrived. In a nutshell, if he's healthy enough to play, he'll back up Hiller. If not, it's Bobkov.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 19, 2013

Blog: Teemu Selanne will sit a game and it could be tonight vs. Calgary. "It's my decision when it's going to be."($) bit.ly/14CyNZj
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 19, 2013

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Calgary Flames

Friday, Apr 19, 2013, 6:00 PM PDT
Scotiabank Saddledome

TV: KDOC

Radio: AnaheimDucks.com

Your Enemy: Matchsticks and Gasoline

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Flames: 2-0-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 17-22-4 = 38 points

Place in Northwest Division: 4th

Place in Western Conference: 13th, officially out of the playoff race

Who's Not? Alex Tanguay is third on the team with 11-16=27 points and is out day-to-day with a sprained MCL.

Your Enemy: Matchsticks and Gasoline

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

This game could be a grand opportunity for the ball to get rolling...

Or it could be just as ugly as the previous few games.

PREGAME UPDATE

It looks as if Jonas Hiller will start for Ducks tonight against Calgary. Igor Bobkov has been recalled from AHL Norfolk.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 19, 2013

Appears that Viktor Fasth might be dealing with an injury issue. Took part in morning skate but left ice a little early.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 19, 2013

Fasth wasn't in dressing room when media arrived. In a nutshell, if he's healthy enough to play, he'll back up Hiller. If not, it's Bobkov.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 19, 2013

Blog: Teemu Selanne will sit a game and it could be tonight vs. Calgary. "It's my decision when it's going to be."($) bit.ly/14CyNZj
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 19, 2013

Group Therapy: Find Me Some Happiness!

SK eleven — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 04:13:24 -0000

Hello?…hello……hello………….hello…………………..hello?

Oy, that’s an empty well down there, isn’t it? Not only is it dry up top, but even down in the depths, where we thought there was plenty of awesomeness tucked away in secret nooks and crannies, it’s empty. Not a treasure in sight.

No goals, either. Ouch.

You want some real meat for these potatoes? Try here…where our own Kyle really rips into the weakness of this Ducks team. It's all coming together at the WRONG time of the season. There isn't much left - it's time to figure this out!

These past few weeks in Ducks land have been miserable. When I don’t want to talk about something or a particularly icky subject comes up, I just change the subject. Besides, so much about this week in the world is pointing me to talk about something good...so here it is:

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m actually on board with this whole outdoor game thing in LA. Yes, I agree, there are too many games going on now to really make them feel "special" – but the NHL is still going to get their cash cow out of this…and I’m still going to STRONGLY consider plopping down a fat wad of dough to be there and contribute to said cash cow, so – I say we all embrace it.

Lest I remind you how often we all complain about how ignored So Cal hockey is when it comes to mainstream attention. And, of course, the on the flip-side, where we occasionally consider flying under the radar to be a blessing as well. For instance, take into consideration the much greater possibility that you’ll be able to get tickets to the Ducks/Kings in Dodger Stadium than, say perhaps, Maple Leafs/Red Wings in Michigan on January 1st. Either way, let’s not complain about this rare opportunity (and I use the word "rare" lightly, cause who knows how long it will be before there is one played in Anaheim at Angel Stadium…and the five other games taking place in 2014 don’t really make this "rare"). PLUS, and this might be the best part…if we’re getting a F#CK!NG 24/7 out of this sh!t, sign me the F#CK up!

Clearly there is too much hate and unhappiness in this world.... so Go Ducks, love, life and happiness!

Ducks Slow Start Proves Costly, Lose to Kings 2-1

SK eleven — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 04:54:30 -0000

Final Score: Ducks 1, Kings 2

First Period Recap: If you thought the Ducks were going to come out to compete against the Kings, you wouldn't have seen it during the first period. The Ducks were credited with only one shot on goal IN THE ENTIRE FIRST PERIOD, meanwhile, the Kings scored on a goal from Drew "crybaby" Doughty from high between the circles. The Ducks top line of Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Bobby Ryan got caught pressing the issue down around the crease when Doughty sent the puck towards the net. A few deflections and the puck bounced past Viktor Fasth to put the Kings up 1-0.

The first period wasn't without controversy as the Ducks were called for a questionable interference call on Radek Dvorak and knee on knee contact between Dustin Brown and Andrew Cogliano. Apparently, the shoulder to shoulder contact negating the fact that Cogliano's knee was completely hyperextended (a highlight they insisted on showing over and over again to my stomach's great discomfort) and thus no penalty was called on the play.

Second Period Recap: A much better second period saw the Ducks come out and get some strong chances. However, they wouldn't really shine until the final 20 seconds of the Daniel Winnik slashing penalty when Getzlaf blocked a shot and raced to the puck. Just as he beat two Kings defenders to the puck, Jonathan Quick thought he could win the race to the rolling puck but missed as Getzlaf tapped the puck ahead, took control and shot the puck into a wide open net with both defenders sprawled out on the ice.

The momentum was definitely in Anaheim's favor as they picked up the tempo and started to control the puck more in their own zone. Even after Ben Lovejoy was sent to the box with a high sticking double minor on Jeff Carter, the Ducks completely dominated the penalty kill. Cogliano got tied up with Quick behind the net at one point and was soon after the recipient of the puck in the Kings zone. He went one-on-one with Quick, but to no ones surprise, he didn't score. The Kings weren't credited with any shots on goal during the power play, and only had three total in the second period.

However, the real downer of the second period for Anaheim was an Emerson Etem shot that hit the cross bar, bounced to Bobby Ryan and went into the net. The replay showed Ryan using a kicking motion and the goal was overturned. It really seemed as though any momentum gained by the Getzlaf shorthanded goal was now completely lost.

To make matters worse, late in the second period Francois Beauchemin took a delay of game penalty just after a time-out to cool the Ducks off from a lengthy Kings possession that ended in an icing call. When they came back to the face-off the puck came to Beauchemin who flipped it down the length of the ice and right over the glass. The Ducks would not see the same fate as their earlier penalty kill as Doughty sent a nice pass to Mike Richards and the Kings went up 2-1. [Ed. Note: I'm usually the last guy to complain about refs, but Koivu was CLEARLY tripped by Carter leading up to this goal. At that point the Ducks hadn't had a power play and had killed four penalties, just couldn't catch a break with the officials tonight. It wasn't the only reason they lost, but it did end up being the game winner. -CK]

Third Period Recap: The third period finally saw both teams playing with some desperation. The Kings looking to keep the momentum and the Ducks finally playing like they wanted to win...or at least catch up. But, as they say in hockey, it really is a game of inches. Fasth was saved by a puck that crept through his legs and slid just past the outside of the post. The Ducks had their chances, most notably a great shot by Matt Beleskey, in which he had a second opportunity on a rebound that Quick grabbed while diving back into position.

Despite the Ducks FINALLY drawing a penalty and with Doughty headed to the box with 2:55 left in the game, Anaheim couldn't convert on the power play and all was lost.

**********

The Good: The second period would have made for a GREAT game...if the first and the third didn't mean anything.

The Bad: Getting control. I don't know what has happened, but this team has gone to the extreme opposite of "cycling too much". Lately it seems they can't pass or control the puck at all, whereas before it seemed that was all they were capable of doing. Forget taking any shots if you can't control the puck.

The Ugly: The first period was ugly. If the second period was GREAT, the first period was DISGUSTING. One shot on goal in an entire period is going to make it really hard to win games.

The Badass: That Ryan Getzlaf goal was badass.

**********

3rd Icehole: Dustin Brown - if you need an explanation, see previous posts on who Ducks fans hate - and throw a knee in there while you're at it.

2nd Icehole: Francois Beauchemin - delay of game penalties are the worst. Unfortunately his led to the Kings game winning goal, and that just sucks.

1st Icehole: The Crossbar - that damn bar! Talk about a momentum killer for Anaheim.

Next Game: Wednesday, April 17, 2013 @ 7pm vs. Columbus @ Honda Center

GameThread: Ducks @ Kings - We Don't Boo Injuries

SK eleven — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 06:21:43 -0000

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Los Angeles Kings

Saturday, Apr 13, 2013, 8:00 PM PDT
STAPLES Center

TV: KDOC, NHLN-US, Prime Ticket (Kings)

Radio: Anaheimducks.com, KTLK 1150AM (Kings)

Your Enemy: Jewels From The Crown, The Royal Half, Battle of California

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Kings: 2-1-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 23-14-4 = 50 points

Place in Pacific Division: 2nd, behind some team we all know and love.

Place in Western Conference: 4th

Who's Hot? Yes, Jeff Carter continues to roll for the Kings with his 25th goal of the season coming against Colorado Thursday night. More importantly, Dustin Brown has six points in the first three meetings between these two teams, and I'd rather not see any more of that.

Who's Not? If you're wondering who the Ducks might want to see in net, go with Jonathan Bernier as he's got a loss and a shootout loss to the Ducks this season. Their only win came with Jonathan Quick in net.

Numbers for Nerds: ln 41 games, the Ducks and Kings have scored 118 and 116 goals respectively. However, the Ducks have done so taking 110 fewer shots on goal (1132 - Ducks, 1242 - Kings).

Enemy Dossier: Jewels From the Crown, Battle of California

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

The problem with clinching a spot in the post season is that the Ducks in particular now have an even stronger lazy mentality. The Kings, on the other hand, are still fighting to secure their spot in the playoff race. Not to mention, they're a little bitter and have shed a few tears over their loss last weekend to the Ducks.

We've already covered the fact that Ducks fans have a strong sense of "dislike" towards the fellas up the freeway, and these close call games and meaningful match-ups tend to mean just that much more in our small corner of the hockey world.

With a good possibility that the Ducks will be without Cam Fowler due to a upper body injury (which, in my personal opinion, might be a good thing to see that guy take a seat for a few games), the Ducks won't really have any surprises up their line-up sleeves. I think we'll be seeing Viktor Fasth take the net and I fully expect the power play will be useless and embarrassing.

So really, I think we should just hope that the Ducks pretend to care a little about winning a few more games to close out the season - at the very least, just to piss off a few teams in the process.

JEN UPDATE:

Some of you are famous! My buddy The Royal Half has a guest blogger that goes through our stories and comments and makes some comments of her own. Enjoy!

Know Your Opponent: Anaheim Ducks 4.12.13

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Los Angeles Kings

Saturday, Apr 13, 2013, 8:00 PM PDT
STAPLES Center

TV: KDOC, NHLN-US, Prime Ticket (Kings)

Radio: Anaheimducks.com, KTLK 1150AM (Kings)

Your Enemy: Jewels From The Crown, The Royal Half, Battle of California

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Kings: 2-1-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 23-14-4 = 50 points

Place in Pacific Division: 2nd, behind some team we all know and love.

Place in Western Conference: 4th

Numbers for Nerds: ln 41 games, the Ducks and Kings have scored 118 and 116 goals respectively. However, the Ducks have done so taking 110 fewer shots on goal (1132 - Ducks, 1242 - Kings).

Enemy Dossier: Jewels From the Crown, Battle of California

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

So really, I think we should just hope that the Ducks pretend to care a little about winning a few more games to close out the season - at the very least, just to piss off a few teams in the process.

JEN UPDATE:

Some of you are famous! My buddy The Royal Half has a guest blogger that goes through our stories and comments and makes some comments of her own. Enjoy!

Know Your Opponent: Anaheim Ducks 4.12.13

Group Therapy: BINGO, Getzlaf's Back!

SK eleven — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 05:38:05 -0000

Um, we missed you?

Over the course of the last week it was particularly hard to watch the Ducks play without their, hmmmm - superstar, Ryan Getzlaf. Sure, they somehow managed to squirm their way into a shootout victory over the Kings, but man, was that game ugly. If there was one thing I'd expect from the Ducks after losing Getzlaf to an injury it would be a DECREASE in excessive and overzealous passing, but definitely not an INCREASE. Watching 20 guys skate around the ice and passing off the puck to one another like it was the most intense game of hot potato was embarrassing and an awful way to go about trying to win a game.

But....even upon the return of Getzlaf, I was extremely disheartened. I guess I was expecting that this team would feel the firepower of having arguably the best player on their roster return to the line-up, but that just didn't happen. While just last week I was hoping that his absence would cause the team to rally without him, this week I'm hoping he finds a new way to inspire them - no matter what the playoff outlook is.

Oh, it's "special" alright

Special teams is one of the easiest things to bitch and moan about when it comes to any sport. Hockey is definitely not an exception to this rule - and the Ducks are offering up plenty of opportunities to do some nasty complaining. Somehow, this team who has scored one goal in their last 10 power play opportunities (a goal from Matt Beleskey, by the way) is sitting eighth in the league. I don't get it.

I actually cringe when the Ducks draw a penalty because I know they're just going to spend the next two minutes of the game making fools of themselves as they skate up and down the ice chasing the puck like a cat and a ball of yarn. Maybe it's a lack of consistency or the fact that Bruce Boudreau doesn't seem to have a lot of patience when it comes to the team lacking in production...but damn, something has got to give. If anything, can we all agree that the constant battle for the puck BEHIND the net isn't doing anyone any good?

And finally...

I have a confession. I'm 30...and I love bingo. Now, I know what you're thinking: what the hell is the amazingly awesome SK doing hanging out with a bunch of old ladies wearing their polyester best with styled cotton candy hair as they blow every last penny of their pension and social security checks in a church basement for the slim chance of a little cash in return?!

First of all it's not like that, I swear. No, really, it's not in a church... OR a basement! It's at a junior high school and it's in their gym. And the image you have of frail senior citizens playing bingo is all wrong; these senior citizens are anything but frail. They run, they curse, and, for many, their livelihood is dependent on whether or not the caller has an N number on the screen even though the game pattern dictates no N numbers need be called. Crazy, right?

Second, bingo can be awfully exciting! Okay, maybe I’m pushing it a bit here. Now, I know you're wondering why I'm confessing this or why it's at all relevant to this hockey site dedicated to the Anaheim Ducks. So, with that in mind, I'll say this much - bingo is Saturday nights and I, along with my good friend, who, at 36, helps me to fill the under-50 quota, try to go once a month. And yes, I have already gone for the month of April, HOWEVER I would not be upset if I were to go again...

Basically, what I'm saying here is…don't make me regret missing Bingo on Saturday, Anaheim. Beat the damn Kings. Whew, I feel better now.

Group Therapy: Getz Some Rest! (With Morning Skate Update)

SK eleven — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 03:48:31 -0000

Deadlined!

So the trade deadline has come and gone and I'm sure most of us are quite pleased with the lack of action on the Ducks end. What can I say, I like this group - it's not perfect, but I'd really like to see them ride this thing out. Besides, it's not as if there was a ton of options on the trading block, and the Ducks had already taken care of the real dirty business...weeks ago!

So lets look at the move they did make and ask yourself...are you really going to miss Brandon McMillan? I mean, the guy played in six games with the Ducks this season (and I can barely remember one of those games). Were the Ducks going to find a permanent place for him at this point? Probably not. Were they going to get more than a Matthew Lombardi back for him? I can't believe we got that much in return quite frankly.

I'm not saying that I'm anti McMillan (I really have no opinions on the guy whatsoever), but I'm thinking there is strong possibility the Ducks upgraded their player value here. What with the post season looming and the on again off again questionable injuries that are floating around (is Nick Bonino ever coming back?), it might be nice to have a roster worthy player available for Anaheim's use. A little more depth can't hurt, right?

Rest-em!

I'm on team "rest Ryan Getzlaf against Dallas on Friday night." Why not? This is one of the RARE times in the Ducks season when they can afford to give one of their big guns a night off and not fear (too much) the repercussions.

This team is so lucky. They've got a leader - who, for the first time since he started wearing that "C" upon his chest - is acting and performing like a real leader. He's not perfect by any means, but I'm absolutely in love with the passionate and hard working Getzlaf that has come with this short season. If it means that he must be 100% healthy to have this attitude and determination to win, so be it. Give him the night off.

We've seen the Ducks pull through without Getzlaf in the line-up before and I have no doubt they can do that again. Yes, the last time the center was absent for a stretch of games it was almost better to have him out of the lineup, but this time around, Getzlaf is most certainly a HUGE factor in the Ducks success. I don't think it would hurt this team to prove to themselves that they can do it without him. A little motivational boost, if you will. It might be a great time for them to put forth a little more effort and show to each other that they are capable of pulling past any team in the league with the talent they are currently boasting.

The Ducks could greatly benefit from a night of "team building" and hard work without their Captain pushing them to do so. But the best part is, even if Getzlaf doesn't play and the Ducks don't win, it might not hurt them all that much either.

It's a rare time in Ducks nation - so give the guy a night off. Besides, he needs to be ready to go Sunday night against those damn Kings. And hey, there's a new guy in town who's just as good, right?!

GO DUCKS!!!

Update from Morning Skate:

BB said Getzlaf is a game-time decision. It is captain's call on whether he wants to go or sit out a game. Injury is not serious.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 5, 2013

Viktor Fasth will start in goal. BB said Jonas Hiller has a cold but should be able to back up.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 5, 2013

BB said Lombardi could be an option to center top line if Getzlaf doesn't play. Steckel is available for action.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) April 5, 2013

More Boudreau on Getzlaf: "If he doesn’t feel comfortable today, then he’ll probably play Sunday."
— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) April 5, 2013

[Ed. Note: Morning Skate Report from the Ducks reinforces my feeling Getzlaf is getting the night off. It's almost like they're prepping people for the inevitable. Fine by me. I'd rather have him feeling his best for Los Angeles. - JN]

GameThread: Ducks @ Stars - Shooting (Dallas) Stars

SK eleven — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 01:47:44 -0000

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Dallas Stars

Monday, Apr 1, 2013, 5:30 PM PDT
American Airlines Center

TV: Fox Sports West

Radio: AM 830 KLAA

Your Enemy: Defending Big D

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Opponent: 1-1-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 16-15-3 = 35 points

Place in Pacific Division: 4th place

Place in Western Conference: 10th place

Who's Hot? Jaromir Jagr recently collected his 1,000th assist. He's also leading the Stars with 14 goals and 26 points.

Who's Not? Now might be a great time to see Kari Lehtonen. He's been on the losing side in 2 of the last 3 played and he's given up 12 goals over that span.

Numbers for Nerds: This is the second time this season the Ducks are playing the same opponent 3 games in a row. They lost the mini series to the Phoenix Coyotes going 1-0-2. They're playing multiple teams on back-to-back occasions having just lost both of those matchups to the Detroit Red Wings and the San Jose Sharks. Following this three game stint, they have 1 more set of back-to-back matchups against the Edmonton Oilers; both games in Edmonton.

Enemy Dossier: Defending Big D

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

I'm going to go ahead and assume we'll be seeing Viktor Fasth here on the second night of back to backs. It almost doesn't matter who's in the net these days as the Ducks biggest problem is scoring, scoring, scoring! They are going to make things very hard on themselves if they can't find a way to get the puck into the net. Simple as that. The big line is going to need to pot a few to get things going, and once again, the Ducks are going to look to their depth as a back-up. One or even two goals a game isn't going to cut it.

The easiest way to slow this scoring slump might come in the form of the power play unit (and whomever is on those units) as they are going to need to start using those rare opportunities to gain some ground and boost the momentum and the confidence that this team is currently lacking.

This is the beginning of another mini best-of-three match-up and this time it's coming against a much more challenging foe in the Dallas Stars. The next three are going to be a real eye opener as to where this team currently stands.

UPDATE @ 2:30pm PT:

@steve_lavery #NHLDucks are listing LW Matt Beleskey as day-to-day with an upper-body injury.
— Dan Wood (@Duckscolorman) April 1, 2013

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Dallas Stars

Monday, Apr 1, 2013, 5:30 PM PDT
American Airlines Center

TV: Fox Sports West

Radio: AM 830 KLAA

Your Enemy: Defending Big D

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Opponent: 1-1-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 16-15-3 = 35 points

Place in Pacific Division: 4th place

Place in Western Conference: 10th place

Who's Hot? Jaromir Jagr recently collected his 1,000th assist. He's also leading the Stars with 14 goals and 26 points.

Who's Not? Now might be a great time to see Kari Lehtonen. He's been on the losing side in 2 of the last 3 played and he's given up 12 goals over that span.

Enemy Dossier: Defending Big D

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

UPDATE @ 2:30pm PT:

@steve_lavery #NHLDucks are listing LW Matt Beleskey as day-to-day with an upper-body injury.
— Dan Wood (@Duckscolorman) April 1, 2013

Ducks Dominate Third, Lose to Jackets in Overtime

SK eleven — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 01:00:55 -0000

Final Score: [Ducks 1, Blue Jackets 2, Overtime]

First Period Recap: At the very onset of the game the Ducks were saved when a shot by the Jackets clanked off the crossbar, hit Jonas Hiller in the back and, thankfully, did not cross the goal line. That was all the excitement for one twenty minute session as the Ducks did very little to show that they had been relieved of that gruesome lazy monkey we've seen them playing with on their backs. Both teams exchanged power play opportunities, but neither were successful. The very frustrating first period ends tied at zip.

Second Period Recap: Not much change in the pace or energy of the game until the Jackets finally struck mid-way through the second period. On the short side, Hiller, unable to completely square up to the post, tries to cover a puck and is surprised when it is flipped in over his right shoulder. With the Jackets happy to have a 1 goal lead and well aware of the Ducks inability to score these days, their desire to simply play defense for the remainder of the game would prove to give the Ducks a lot of opportunities going forward. It's also about this time of the game when Bruce Boudreau begins to get irritated with the lack of production and lines begin to mix and mash.

Third Period Recap: The Ducks fought hard in the third period. Throwing puck after puck at Sergei Bobrovsky to no avail. Emerson Etem finally put one past the netminder just about 6:00 minutes into the period and that lit the Ducks squad on fire. There were numerous chances for big line of Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Bobby Ryan, but sticks were lifted, pucks were bobbled and passes were just out of reach. The Ducks dominated and HIller was forced to only see one quality shot. The other went soaring past and was saved by the crossbar.

Overtime: With all of the wind knocked out of their sails in the third, the Ducks few chances in the overtime session weren't enough. Some great passing by the Jackets set up a wide open Mark Letestu for the game winner with 1:00 minute left in overtime. The puck seemed to deflect off the inner part of Hiller's arm and into the net. Talk about a bust for tons of hard work in the third.

**********

The Good: Since we wont be giving out any "stars", it's got to be Emerson Etem who was a beast in this game. He was hitting - to the very detriment of the Jackets - and he's the reason the Ducks were able to pick up a point with his lone goal. He plays hard and has no quit to his attitude. Something the Ducks are needed right now. There is something about his physical game that reminds me a lot of former Ducks forward Travis Moen.

The Bad: The power play MUST connect in times like these. When the team isn't scoring as regularly or as often as they need to be, the power play has to make up for that deficit. Even worse, the power play is just flat out ugly at times - it could use a makeover and one that is consistent. Every game there is new look to the PP and it's confusing for all involved.

The Ugly: Where has all the scoring gone? Lately the Ducks are lucky to get 1 or two goals in a game, and it's not helping them at all. I'm not sure if this is part of the momentum switch or the fact that they just are't feeling confident, but 17 shots and only 1 goal in the 3rd period sure does tell you a lot about the slump this team is in.

**********

3rd Icehole: Sergei Bobrovsky. Geez, you're an awful puckhandler and you didn't mess that up nearly enough. Then, you somehow find a way to stop just about everything the Ducks could possibly throw at you? Thanks, dude. We appreciate it.

2nd Icehole: Corey Perry. I found myself hard pressed to pick anyone that stood out glaringly, but there were too many times tonight where I yelled at Perry for just not taking advantage and shooting the puck. He had his chances, and damn that post...but something's gotta give here boys. SOON!

1st Icehole: Jonas Hiller. Sorry dude, but you have very little work in the third, even get saved by a post in your absence, and then give up the game winner in overtime on a puck that squeaks between the body. Foul.

Next Game: Monday, April Fools Day, 5:30pm @ Dallas.

Ducks' Late Goal Tops Chicago in 2-1 Victory

SK eleven — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 03:32:12 -0000

Final Score: Ducks 2, Blackhawks 1

First Period Recap: A few line changes to start the game saw Teemu Selanne skating alongside Andrew Cogliano and Peter Holland. That change brought Kyle Palmieri to a line with Daniel Winnik and Saku Koivu. The team as a whole started this game just as we'd become accustomed to seeing them play before this ugly four game stretch of major suck-i-tude. Fast paced, solid passing, forechecking, winning battles, etc.

Chicago had no problem getting their game going as Jonas Hiller was tested early on with a few good chances from the Hawks and Patrick Kane in particular, who was up to his old tricks. [Ed. Note: Drinking and punching cabbies? Oh, no the hockey stuff.... -CK] However, despite a late Ducks power play opportunity in the final minutes of the first period, the teams went back to the locker room tied at zip.

Second Period Recap: It was as if the 20 minutes of recovery served a good reminder for Anaheim that they are actually a decent team, they came in the second playing like one. Chicago turned over the puck in the neutral zone to Francois Beauchemin who passed the puck up to Bobby Ryan and a quick chip to Corey Perry who took a peak and sent one flying passed Ray Emery, off the post and in, to put the Ducks up 1-0.

With Anaheim finally finding a way to score first in a game, Perry thought he'd make things harder for the team by heading to the penalty box. However, with the great PK work from Cogliano, Winnik and Emerson Etem, the Ducks are finding themselves to be a threat even when short handed.

These three would have another glorious set of chances when Luca Sbisa headed to the penalty box late in the second.

Even after killing penalties, the Ducks were still making the best of given opportunities. After Bobby Ryan took one to the midsection off a Perry shot, he was still able to get a few shots on goal and even one that glanced off the crossbar.

Third Period Recap: It wasn't until the third period that the Blackhawks finally broke through. Sheldon Souray got caught clearing the puck over the glass and headed off to the penalty box. Of course, as it usually goes, Winnik had a huge opportunity when Emery sprawled out to get his pinky toe on the puck to keep the forward from scoring. With the puck headed right back into the Ducks zone, Hiller was caught peeking around the screen as a bomb off the stick of Kane found it's way to the back of the net tying the game at one.

Of course, this is when Chicago would heat up. The crowd was going and the pace quickened. Remember the team we saw play for the past week or so? They would have been massacred at this point, but the Ducks never backed down. With some increased pressure deep in the Chicago zone, the big boys of Ryan Getzlaf, Perry and Ryan were rewarded when a Souray shot was deflected off a Blackhawks stick and the Ducks took the lead with just around 2:00 minutes left to play.

Chicago sent Emery to the bench for the sixth attacker, but the Ducks defense stepped up and the team was finally able to exhale a sigh of relief.

**********

The Good: Finally the Ducks come out and play a respectable game. 60 minutes of hockey and some real effort. They actually opened up the scoring in this game and even after Chicago found a way to tie it, they pressed harder and were rewarded with a victory in regulation.

The Bad: Sheldon Souray. He was responsible for scoring the game winner and it was most definitely his saving grace. Souray has been victim of too many blunders lately, so it was nice to see him turn that around in the end - but even in this game he was responsible for penalty that lead to the Chicago goal. A few less turnovers at the blueline would be helpful.

The Ugly: This damn flu. I'm just glad it's the worst thing to come out of this evening cause compared to the last few games there isn't much to complain about on the Ducks end for a change.

**********

3rd MVD: Luca Sbisa. Tonight was one of his better games. He was hitting well and poking pucks free. He had a few great opportunities that led to some solid scoring chances and was lucky enough to get his stick on a puck that was headed for a wide open net after a save by HIller.

2nd MVD: Penalty killers Andrew Cogliano, Emerson Etem and Daniel Winnik. I'm beginning to wonder if Etem is practicing his penalty killing in his sleep! Many solid chances on the killing units saw all three of these guys with some big chances. It's opportunities like these that will change a team's momentum going forward.

1st MVD: Jonas Hiller. Whether it be luck or great skill, Hiller played a quality game. He came up huge on some fantastic chances by the Hawks and was definitely bailed out by his defensive core from time to time, but all in all, he stepped up when the team needed him to and that is definitely what this team needed to get back on track.

Next Game: Sunday, Mar. 31, 2013 3:00 pm PT @ Columbus

Anaheim Ducks @ Chicago Blackhawks: Un-do This Curse!

SK eleven — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 04:04:23 -0000

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Chicago Blackhawks

Friday, Mar 29, 2013, 5:30 PM PDT
United Center

TV: Fox Sports-West, NHL Network-US
Radio: Wold Wide Interweb Only (Anaheimducks.com)

Your Enemy: Second City Hockey & The Committed Indian

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Blackhawks: 2-0-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 25-4-3 = 53 points

Place in Central Division: 1st

Place in Western Conference: 1st (currently 2nd overall in the league behind Pittsburgh)

Who's Hot? Patrick Kane is doing as you'd expect and leading his team in both goals and assists. Kane is fifth in the league in goals, assists and points.

Who's Not? Both Marian Hossa and Patrick Sharp are expected to be out of the lineup. Hossa didn't play in Anaheim either, which may have helped since he's third on the Blackhawks in points, and has four of the team's GWG.

Numbers for Nerds: It might be harder for Anaheim to break this ugly inability to score. Chicago (along with Ottawa) have given up the least amount of goals against this season with 68. That's just a little over 2.12 a game. Lately, the Ducks are lucky to get one!

Enemy Dossier: Second City Hockey, The Committed Indian

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

It was definitely an uphill battle for the Ducks to take out the Hawks just a little over a week ago, and since then their momentum, positive mentality and egos have been absolutely shattered. If the team needed a reminder that they're worthy of competing and making a serious run in the post season, this game could be an opportunity to forget the recent week of embarassment.

Or it can send them further into the abyss.

The Ducks are still sitting atop the standings in the Pacific, but other teams are starting to catch fire and their position on the leader board won't last long at this rate. Anaheim's goaltending is starting to take a turn for the worse in what may be best described as a "better of two evils" and the offense is definitely playing hookie from attending any 60 minute session. Defensively the mishmash and rotation of defensemen is starting to wreack havoc on the ever changing pairings and any sense of consistency has definitely flown the coop.

Ironically, if anyone thought that Anaheim was in need of a challenge, they've found it. I just don't think anyone expected the challenge to be hiding in their very own locker room.

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Chicago Blackhawks

Friday, Mar 29, 2013, 5:30 PM PDT
United Center

TV: Fox Sports-West, NHL Network-US
Radio: Wold Wide Interweb Only (Anaheimducks.com)

Your Enemy: Second City Hockey & The Committed Indian

Complete Coverage >

Season Series Record, Ducks vs. Blackhawks: 2-0-0

KNOW THY ENEMY

Record (Points): 25-4-3 = 53 points

Place in Central Division: 1st

Place in Western Conference: 1st (currently 2nd overall in the league behind Pittsburgh)

Who's Hot? Patrick Kane is doing as you'd expect and leading his team in both goals and assists. Kane is fifth in the league in goals, assists and points.

Enemy Dossier: Second City Hockey, The Committed Indian

**********

DUCKS PREVIEW

Or it can send them further into the abyss.

Ironically, if anyone thought that Anaheim was in need of a challenge, they've found it. I just don't think anyone expected the challenge to be hiding in their very own locker room.

Group Therapy: Funk This!

SK eleven — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 03:55:15 -0000

The Ducks are ugly right now, aren’t they? I mean, they find some way to pull off a victory past arguably the best team in the league only to follow that up with four games against two different opponents that leave everyone standing around thinking to themselves, what the eff happened to this group of players?!

Seriously, what the hell happened? Did it take THAT much out of the Ducks against Chicago that they aren’t able to recuperate? Did they really think they’d be able to just play at a half ass rate and beat every other team in the league? Did the return of Corey Perry hurt more than the absence?

It cannot go on like this. If Chicago was the team to put the Ducks in the funk, they’re the only possible team that can pull them out of it, right?

This is it - the portal out of hell. The Ducks are entering a small window of opportunity, a tiny crack in the chain that binds the gates of Satan’s Lair. Herein lies an opportunity for this team to emerge from out of the embarrassment shit brick house they’ve put themselves into and return to their place in the world of all that is good and harmonious. With the possible emergence comes hope that they are able to escape minimally unscathed and ready to move forward from this awful stumble, tumble and crash landing that put them right in the face of pure and evil ugly.

Ha, you’d think I’d never seen the Ducks play like crap before, eh?

We all knew we’d see this fall at some point, and really, let’s just be grateful that it didn’t happen (or, potentially, doesn’t happen) in Round One of the playoffs. Really, can we be at all surprised that this slump has come all at one time? Eventually all of those come-from-behind-victories would catch up with them. All of those lucky bounces and sleight of hand opportunities might begin to dwindle, therefore causing this team to see they are most definitely, and not surprisingly, mortal hockey players.

Now might be a good time for them to find a comfortable stride. Glide their way through the remaining 15 games of the season before catching fire once more, just in the nick of time!

Besides, they were never going to be the end-all-be-all that was Chicago during their ridiculous streak, or the high and mighty that is, once again, Pittsburgh for their recent acquisition, which must be the hockey God’s gift to the universe.

I mean, this is Anaheim – we’re the only people who really care about snapping a losing streak, right?

GO DUCKS!!!

Group Therapy: For All Those OTHER Guys!

SK eleven — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 17:18:45 -0000

I'd like to take the final 6:00 minutes of hockey from the Ducks/Blackhawks game on Wednesday night and bottle it into a drink that I could sip from and experience everyday for the rest of my life. Of course, that emotional range of extreme pressure, excitement, worry, nervousness and overwhelming spikes of joy would probably give me a heart attack before I'm 40, but there is a price for glory dammit!

Contracts!

Initially I was very excited when Ryan Getzlaf signed his extension. I thought 8 years would be a long time and $66 million is a heck of a lot of money. I feared there would be no "room" left for Corey Perry on the payroll - but I didn't really think that would matter as I expected him to test the market anyway.

And then, Monday night, I found my hands surprisingly up in the air celebrating the news of Perry and his own 8 year deal worth slightly more than his buddy. I guess that's what an MVP trophy buys you - a few extra hundred thousand a year. Anyway - I was, and still greatly am, thrilled that these two powerhouses will be in Ducks jerseys for the next 8 seasons. Getzlaf has proved that he is and can be a great leader for this team and Perry is clearly a vital ingredient for any offense threat the Ducks posses. Let's just say that game on Wednesday might not have gone to the wire like that if the Ducks had the Perry-quotient.

We aren't going to know the true value of these deals for some years to come. I think the next four will be exactly what we hoped they'd be from these two...the following four might be a bit more questionable.

The heart of a hockey player

If you don't like Andrew Cogliano after Wednesday's game - you're an idiot. Sorry, but that's just how it is. Hell, even if you aren't a Ducks fan, the final moments of that Ducks game should have made you like Cogliano just a little more than you've ever expected. To see a player get CLOBBERED with an opponents stick, hit the ice, writhe in pain, watch referees and teammates pick up teeth off the ice...and then see that SAME player on the ice in the midst of the action minutes later...was INCREDIBLE. Once I began to see the pictures of Cogliano's face and crazy vampire smile, I couldn't help but feel some extreme gratitude that the Ducks are lucky to have a dedicated player like that on their roster. Add in some bad ass penalty killing and feisty forechecking mentality to his game and I'm quickly becoming a big Cogliano fan.

Cogliano wasn't the only player to make a splash that night. While driving home from the game, I began to get a series of tweets about Getzlaf having the flu. I'm sorry, you mean the guy, the one who turned on the gears to overdrive (in the final moments of a game the Ducks had very little business of winning based on their AWFUL third period play) and made two of the greatest plays of the night - THAT guy was sick with the flu? Incredible. Sign me up for 8 more seasons of THAT guy!

GO DUCKS!!!

Group Therapy: It Should Have Been Less

SK eleven — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 05:15:47 -0000

Perry

I haven’t really put my two cents in on this topic just yet, so I figured I’d go ahead and get it off my chest here.

I think four games is too many. To clarify, I’m not at all surprised he was suspended, but I don’t think it warranted four games. It was a late hit and, unfortunately, a player was hurt. I do think the penalties he received on the play should have more than accounted for the proper "punishment".

I will say that if the roles were reversed I would have wanted to see a suspension as well. There was an injury, although that apparently doesn’t apply to EVERYONE in the NHL, but it seems as though part of the justification came from his HISTORY. Um, no. What happened to that crazy 18 month rule? That doesn’t apply to others, but it does to Corey Perry?

Like I said, I agree with a suspension in this case, but I don’t agree with Perry’s history coming into play and I do not agree with four games. Sure, there are plenty of players who are never suspended during their NHL careers, and yet there are some who are suspended more often and for FAR worse.

For the record, I don’t think that Perry is a dirty player. I think he’s a hard-working and physical athlete who doesn’t deserve the title which so many have given him. Perry is a fire driven and passionate player who plays with determination and an intense willpower that I’m sure many are envious of. He is, however, not one who is outside of the "law" of the game. An illegal hit is an illegal hit – I can’t argue that. This hit was late and it caused a player to get injured. Two games.

Ouch

The Ducks are hurting throughout their line-up - and, unlike earlier in this season, the players who are currently nursing injuries don’t have the luxury of a week long layoff to recover or allow those bumps and bruises to heal. The Ducks are in the midst of a crazy "every other day" schedule that won’t let up any time soon and that puts pressure on those who are on the sidelines and those who are on the ice. The Ducks will have to continue to perform without key players for various reasons and that is going to be the real test for this blossoming team.

For those who expected to see Jonas Hiller take to the ice for 35-40 games in this shortened season are going to forcefully get their wish. With Viktor Fasth on the sideline for an uncertain amount of time, all of the duties will fall onto Hillers shoulders. While I’d really rather not see Hiller in the net all that often, I think I’d enjoy seeing Jeff Deslauries on the ice even less.

Realignment

With the agreement in place to start a new alignment of the divisions, I can actually say I’m looking forward to the new set-up. I’m definitely not a fan of the Dallas Stars, so it’ll be nice to see them a little less than we normally do. On the other hand, if things stay the way they are, it’ll be way more fun to beat the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers and have those wins hold a bit more value. Not to mention, the travel up and down the coast will be an ease on the Ducks schedule as well. Sometimes change is fun, I have a feeling this might be one of those times!

GameThread: Ducks (sans Corey Perry and his flesh-colored beard) @ Stars

SK eleven — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 03:09:45 -0000

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Dallas Stars

Thursday, Mar 14, 2013, 5:30 PM PDT
American Airlines Center

TV: PRIME TICKET

Radio: AM 830 KLAA

Your Enemy: Defending Big D

Complete Coverage >

What a difference a game makes.

The Ducks have been battling on and fighting through some unfortunate challenges lately. Even though they aren't playing what we might consider to be romantically beautiful hockey as of late, they're thankfully collecting points as they need to be. Case in point was the disgusting and ugly win in Minnesota Tuesday night (odd how even winning is sometimes just not good enough).

A game they definitely did not deserve to win has ultimately resulted in major losses for the team in the in the immediate future. After the last minute need for a swap of their starting goaltender, Jonas Hiller was forced to get into game-day mode unexpectedly. Follow that up with a devastating hit/charge/interference/game misconduct taken by Corey Perry half way through the second and the Ducks are starting to find new ways to test their team make-up.

So many of the things that we’re all very excited about for the second half of this season are shaping up to be actual question marks. Can this team prove to have enough talent to cover the holes that are starting to formulate against their will? How long will Nick Bonino be sidelined with the flu? Is Kyle Palmieri still nursing his "upper body injury"? Is the Viktor Fasth injury something to worry about? Will the Perry four-game suspension and subsequent line-shakeup’s be a problem that is felt throughout the line-up?

The Ducks are heading into Dallas with a huge amount of weight on their shoulders, and, not to mention, an intense desire to even the score. You may recall a particularly disastrous game not too long ago where Dallas was the sole ugly mark on what was an overly successful road trip for Anaheim.

This group is closing in on the Chicago Blackhawks and now is not the time to slow the momentum. The short season is on the downward slope and picking up steam.

So, here's game one of the "how will the Ducks look without Corey Perry?" experiment...

GO DUCKS!!!

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks
@ Dallas Stars

Thursday, Mar 14, 2013, 5:30 PM PDT
American Airlines Center

TV: PRIME TICKET

Radio: AM 830 KLAA

Your Enemy: Defending Big D

Complete Coverage >

What a difference a game makes.

This group is closing in on the Chicago Blackhawks and now is not the time to slow the momentum. The short season is on the downward slope and picking up steam.

So, here's game one of the "how will the Ducks look without Corey Perry?" experiment...

GO DUCKS!!!

SK's Mid Season Awards: Your Depth Surprises Me!

SK eleven — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 02:18:08 -0000

I can never pick just one player or thing when it comes to this stuff, so I didn’t. I know, I’m a rebel.

Most Valuable Duck – Ryan Getzlaf. I’m still in shock that this guy is even on my radar. I think it comes down to the fact that this guy is just damn good. This Getzlaf, the one we thought we had all along, is pretty incredible. He’s an "MVP" caliber player...finally.

Honorable mention – Andrew Cogliano. I had to settle for this one. I say that because I feel like there are a handful of guys who could qualify as the runner up in this category, but I decided to go with a player who is scoring goals, killing penalties and doing the little things we expected of him when the Ducks signed him just over a season ago.

Least Valuable Duck – Teemu Selanne linemates. I feel bad for poor Selanne. It’s evident the guy still has those things that make you say "ohh" and "ahhh" but he’s been forced to play with a mish-mash of guys who aren’t able to play alongside such a talented force effectively. Selanne needs a hard-nosed speedster with talent away from the puck and a playmaker who can find Selanne through a sea of traffic and double-teaming stick work. He hasn’t been as fortunate to have such valuable linemates as one of them in particular, Saku Koivu, is busy making the third line look like geniuses.

Dishonorable mention – Ben Lovejoy. Poor guy. He’s just in the unfortunate position of being the odd man out in my book. I know, you’re probably surprised that I didn't pick Brad Staubitz (for the record…it’s TOTALLY this guy, but I wanted to stray from the obvious) or Bryan Allen (who I’m not hating as much lately since he’s been under the weather).

Biggest Surprise – Third line. Again, the obvious answers here might be Ryan Getzlaf, Viktor Fasth or Daniel Winnik, but when you’re able to talk about a GROUP of players as a pleasant surprise, you’ve got to go with it. When Bruce Boudreau first unveiled this crazy third line group, I was completely boggled. One, I feared what might happen to Selanne (a fear I feel might be coming to light) and two, how the heck Koivu would respond to what seemed like a demotion. HAHAHA. That’s funny. It brings me to my next point.

Honorable mention – Depth. This team is showing that the depth is key. It’s heartwarming, really. But upon seeing what players, even those on the fourth line, can bring to every element of the game, has been truly refreshing. I’m certain at this point, Koivu wouldn’t consider PP, PK and centering the third line as any sort of demotion…not on a team with so much talent and depth.

and... – The defense. I can't begin to tell you how shocked I am to see the defense look as decent as it does.

Biggest Disappointment – Half NHL season. Maybe the shortened season is why these Ducks are playing with such fire and gusto, but not having a full season to play this brand of hockey they are giving to their fans right now is a damn shame.

140 character prediction – Ducks continue trend, cuz winning = fun. 1st in Pac. PP continues to boggle mind. Getz w/75pts. Cogs leads in goals. Perry breaks hearts.

Group Therapy: An Asterisk for the Asterisk

SK eleven — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 06:06:34 -0000

Chicago*

Here's one way to get hockey on the national sports radar: ridiculous point streak!

Hell, even Lebron James is on board after recently tweeting about the success of the Blackhawks impressive start to the season (or perhaps it was his way of turning some attention towards Miami's current streak...but that's not the point). Every morning, while I'm putting on my pretty/happy face for work, I listen to SportsCenter and, with each Chicago victory, comes a new round of glowing admiration for the Hawks. I get it, this streak they've got going is impressive as hell, but I think it needs an asterisk.

The Blackhawks have only played the second best team in the league once (that would be your favorite NHL team, the Anaheim Ducks), and that team took them to a shootout and beat them. How could we ever forget that ridiculous "net off the ice" goal that got the game to overtime in the first place. Obviously, with how the NHL hands out their extra points for losing in overtime, it has contributed to the impressive streak in question. But aside from this overtime/shootout loss, the Blackhawks have only "lost" on two other occasions (Minnesota and Vancouver).

I just feel that if they were playing some of the better teams in the East, this streak might not stand where it does. So yea, as much as I hate to say it, the West just isn't good enough to stop some of the better teams in the league. A little competition for these Blackhawks and maybe we wouldn't have to hear about them every damn morning! An asterisk season and an asterisk record - that's all I'm saying.

Visors

This is a hot topic in my small hockey circle. My uncle thinks that players should be wearing full cages - ok, this could be a bit much. I hear this one regularly, "If I owned an NHL team - I'd demand it!" Anyway, this means we constantly have an argument regarding the players face protection.

I always battle for the players right to chose and he always brings up the numerous injuries that we've seen on the Anaheim roster as a rebuttal. But, to be honest, I think that all players should be wearing visors at the very least. Start the trend at a young age, as they do, and let them establish their game while wearing them in the first place. When you see a player writhing on the ice in pain after getting hit in the face with a puck, it kinda seems like a no-brainer.

Something to consider, Ryan Getzlaf, even after missing a good chunk of games two seasons ago, is no longer wearing his visor. He doesn't like the way it limits his vision on the ice, and, with the way he's playing right now, I can't fault him for that.

Exhausting/Exciting

I'm fighting off the flu, or, at the very least, the ugly symptoms of a brutal illness that is about to hit me like a ton of bricks. In fact, I'm pretty hopped up on Nyquil as I write this (and likely to pass out immediately after hitting "save"). That being said, I looked at the crazy month of March for the Ducks and it kinda makes me long for that week long break they just had.

The Ducks play 17 games in the month of March and over the next 24 days, they have 13 games; a game every other day, with one back-to back thrown in the mix. However, it's the final two weeks of the month where the Ducks take on the Red Wings twice (both in Anaheim), the Sharks three times and two against those damn Blackhawks. In other words, save your hockey loving screaming voices, you're going to need them for all this Ducks hockey on the horizon!

GO DUCKS!!!

Ducks Lose Palmieri and Shootout in Phoenix, 5-4

SK eleven — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 02:16:05 -0000

Final Score: Ducks 4, Coyotes 5 (SO)

First Period Recap: The Ducks wasted no time getting on the board when Saku Koivu found Andrew Cogliano to put the Ducks up 1-0 just 21 seconds into the game. The first period however would be marred by a dominating power play that couldn't connect despite 8 SOG's. The end result came in a momentum shift and a Phoenix goal. Even worse, after just 2:59 of ice time, Kyle Palmieri took a hit to the face from Raffi Torres and didn't return.

Second Period Recap: Phoenix finally broke the tie just past the mid-way point of the game, but that wouldn't last long. Within the next five minutes, Cogliano would score his second and third goal to cap off (haha) his second career hattie, both coming against the Phoenix Coyotes. The Ducks take a 3-2 lead into the locker room, but we all know that wouldn't last long.

Third Period Recap: To continue the early scoring trend, the Ducks get caught fumbling the puck right in front of the net and give up a goal just 18 seconds into the period to allow Phoenix to tie the game at 3. Another great showing on the power play for Anaheim and the second unit finds the back of the net when Saku Koivu would score with 6 seconds remaining on the man advantage. Protecting the lead, the Ducks get caught in their own end and can't clear the puck as Phoenix ties it 4-4.

Overtime: So many chances in the overtime session. Breakaways on both ends with great defensive plays. In the final two minutes the Ducks find themselves on the power play and they can't connect. On to the shootout!

Shootout:

Boedker: SAVE!

Bonino: Save

Sullivan: Score

Perry: Save

Korpikoski: Miss

Koivu: Save

**********

The Good: Normally I don't give a lot of credit to a power-play that isn't successful, but the Ducks' units have greatly improved. They're getting chances and actually taking a good number of shots. It's just too bad that their blown opportunities have lead to the opposition scoring. [Ed. Note: Ducks power play now second best in the league and only 0.40 behind St. Louis for the top spot. - JN]

The Bad: Third periods. It's been a bit of a trend with Anaheim lately and this game was no different. The first two periods are all Ducks hockey and then in the third period the gears change and so does the momentum.

The Ugly: The power play. I know, ironic, but when you've got a full two minutes to finish the game off in overtime, you've got to get it done. So while the units are improved, the final product still needs work. A score in those final moments and this game wouldn't have been lost in overtime.

**********

3rd Icehole: Ben Lovejoy. Just one of those nights where I found myself noticing him too much. It especially hurt when he fumbled the puck early in the third to give up the Coyotes third goal.

2nd Icehole: Bobby Ryan. Not because I think he had a particularly bad game, but just because I feel bad for him. Dude had so many opportunities that just didn't click. He was outright robbed by Mike Smith - dammit.

1st Icehole: Raffi Torres. Dude gets a ugly hit on Kyle Palmieri and then Palms is out for the remainder of the game. It forces Bruce Boudreau to shuffle the lines earlier than normal. And, Torres has been an icehole in the past.

Post-game Kyle Palmieri Update:

Boudreau said Palmieri (upper body) is day to day. "I think he should be fine." Team will rest tomorrow so we'll see on him Monday.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) March 3, 2013

Next Game: Ducks @ Phoenix, Monday, Mar. 4 at 6:00pm PT

GameThread: Ducks @ Coyotes, Let The Mini-Playoffs Begin

SK eleven — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 06:27:31 -0000

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks (15-3-1)
@ Phoenix Coyotes (9-8-3)

Saturday, Mar 2, 2013, 5:00 PM PST
Jobing.com Arena

TV: PRIME TICKET

Radio: AM 830 KLAA

Your Enemy: Five For Howling

Complete Coverage >

Herein begins "game week" between the Ducks and the Coyotes.

Have you ever wanted to take an interest in another team, ya know, really watch the way they play over an extended period of time, but couldn’t find a way to fit them into your busy schedule and love of your favorite NHL team?

Well, starting tonight, this is your opportunity to get an up close and personal look at the Phoenix Coyotes. You’ll get to revisit this match-up again on Monday, and, again, one more time on Wednesday. That’s right, three straight against those wacky desert dogs!

There’s a highly good chance the Ducks are going to start off this home-home and home stance with Viktor Fasth in the net seeing as how Jonas Hiller got the nod against the Minnesota Wild on Friday night. Likewise, there’s also a good chance we see Sheldon Souray swap in for Toni Lydman to allow them the rest on back-to-back evenings.

The Ducks might just be one of the luckiest teams in the league right now with the ability to play either of their goalies or swap out their defensive players on any given night. The depth of the playing filed is stretching not just beyond the forward depth, but defensively as well. This option is even sweeter on back to back occasions.

Let’s consider this a mini-playoff series, shall we? Best 2 of 3? Go for it!

GO DUCKS!!!

Next Game

Anaheim Ducks (15-3-1)
@ Phoenix Coyotes (9-8-3)

Saturday, Mar 2, 2013, 5:00 PM PST
Jobing.com Arena

TV: PRIME TICKET

Radio: AM 830 KLAA

Your Enemy: Five For Howling

Complete Coverage >

Herein begins "game week" between the Ducks and the Coyotes.

Let’s consider this a mini-playoff series, shall we? Best 2 of 3? Go for it!

GO DUCKS!!!

Group Therapy: Trifecta! The Captain Cares, Others Step Up & Defense That Isn't Scary!

SK eleven — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 01:10:45 -0000

Ryan Getzlaf

Honestly, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m putting Getzlaf on the list of Ducks MVP’s this season. The obvious conclusion must be because of the "contract season". I mean, it has to be the reason he’s playing so well, right? And, yes, I love that he’s shooting the puck more and that he’s second on the team with 6 goals, but that’s not even my favorite part! It’s all the things he’s doing away from the net – it’s the other things, the things I EXPECT him to do because I’ve seen him do it before! It’s the hustling, the hitting, the fact that for the first time in a long time I’m not absolutely shocked when he wins a battle along the boards. His face-off percentage is up. He LOOKS healthier and he is skating harder. I don’t need Getzlaf to score 20 goals a season (it would be nice though). What I do need from Getzlaf is to win face-offs, dive for lose pucks and back-check the hell out of the hundreds of players in the NHL that he can completely overpower, then I need him to get the puck to someone who can and will score. The tone of my voice has changed completely when it comes to talking about this guy. Let it be a contract love – but I’m all for it.

Kyle Palmieri and some of those other guys

This guy is currently the Ducks leading goal scorer thanks to a nifty natural hattie on Wednesday night. Do I think that Kyle Palmieri is the future of this team? Not really. Sure, he’s got some talent, we know that – I even think Jen knows that (maybe?), but the important thing is that it’s showing everyone what Ducks fans have quickly figured out. The depth on this team is (please, pardon my hockey talk) fucking awesome.

The Ducks are so used to a team that is completely lopsided in terms of playing time and points that we have forgotten what it is like to look at a list of stats and find comfort in whomever may be on the ice (as long as it’s not Brad Staubitz). I know a lot of credit has to be given to Bruce Boudreau for rolling four lines. He’s not afraid to put players like Palmieri out there on the ice alongside players like Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf, and more importantly, it’s paying off. Sure, if these guys weren’t scoring we’d all be fuming and furious, but let this be a testament to those players themselves. They’ve got the skills, we’re seeing that, and they’ve finally been given the opportunity they may not have been offered under previous coaching regimes, perhaps.

All in all, these players are being shown faith in their abilities to play NHL caliber hockey. They’re stepping up to that challenge and showing everyone they deserve/want to be in the NHL on a regular basis. There is a big part of me that is shocked to see players like Palmieri and Nick Bonino playing with this NHL team…but a big part of the shock is because I never thought it would happen – and STICK! We’ve seen the youngsters tossed back and forth from the Ducks to "whatever affiliate they have at the time" so often that it is somewhat of a common trend. I never imagined that the team would finally commit to having them play full seasons with the team. Yes, yes, it was bound to happen, but I’m just glad to see that it’s working out, for now.

No defense here!

I’ll go ahead and admit that my pure hatred for Bryan Allen has been greatly reduced as I’m noticing him less and less on the ice (which, I believe, is a good thing)…but it’s not completely eliminated. That being said, the Ducks defense isn’t nearly as scary as I thought it would be.

Was the Cam Fowler injury a blessing in the disguise of an awful upper body injury (you know, the one no one ever bothered to call the concussion that it was)? I mean, would the Ducks have then traded for Ben Lovejoy? Would the team then have a viable option for running a rotation of defensemen in order to give the veterans some rest on back-to-back nights? Or would they have the luxury of sitting players like Luca Sbisa when Boudreau feels they need a little wake up call to their game? The pairings are finally starting to take shape. Players like Francois Beauchemin are heating up and the likes of guys like Sheldon Souray are even starting to look good for the roles they were brought in to play.

GO DUCKS!!!

Group Therapy: Is that you, Brian Burke?

SK eleven — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 02:35:28 -0000

Straight to it!

Brian Burke:

He's back with the organization. I'll just say this, when he was fired in Toronto, I just knew it was only a matter of time before he was back in some regard with the Ducks' organization. For now, he's a pro-scout, or, who knows, a throbbing reminder of what is waiting in the wings for some. He might be the ear or the hard nosed bad-ass that Bob Murray needs to acquire some talent, or he might be the guy that scares the shit out of Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf and sends them both packing. Either way, he's brought his end of the Toronto pipeline back to Anaheim, hopefully closing that passage for good. The questions that remain are what in the hell does that mean for the Ducks moving forward because we all know damn well he won't just sit back in the shadows.

Lockout, part 45?

Is this the LONGEST break in the history of hockey breaks or what? Talk about a pure momentum killer! Then again, this might be the best break ever. It will allows those bumps and bruises to heal a little, Cam Fowler to return to the ice slowly but surely, and allows the power play some practice (word)! Either way, my body is going through serious withdrawals. But hey, at least I can go on a pure binge by ingesting 5 games in just 7 days! Thanks, NHL, you're swell!

Viktor Fasth!

The Ducks added the goalie to their roster for 2 more seasons and it immediately received a lot of heat from the media and fans alike. Questions on whether or not this will spark a trade has plenty of Ducks fans worried regarding the fate of Jonas Hiller in the off season. More importantly, after less than 10 games in the NHL, the real question is whether or not this was too soon? Rest assured, this season the dude is pretty cheap and playing well thus far (knock on wood). The only hope is that the Ducks got in early on something that is going to continue to mature. In other words...here's hoping that by this time next season we're all saying, "Hot damn, that was a great idea!"

In other news...

San Jose, we did you a favor and gave you your first loss in regulation. Now, if you please, would you do the entire NHL a favor and pay that same gratitude forward to the Blackhawks? Do your best to be useful for a change, thank you.

GO DUCKS!!!

Group Therapy: Show Me Some Love

SK eleven — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 21:50:26 -0000

Since we’ve just celebrated the Hallmark holiday that is Valentine’s Day, I thought it would be good to spread some love without buying chocolates to fatten your ass or flowers that will die before the puck drops in Detroit tonight.

After all, I’m really loving this Ducks team right now, and they deserve my appreciation. Even if it comes in the form of a hockey blog that they’ll never see. It’s the thought that counts, dammit!

So, for today’s therapy session, put on your favorite Barry White album, cuddle up next to the warm fire, pop open a bottle of your favorite booze, and reminisce on how much you love your hockey team.

Our love for…

Viktor Fasth. He is 6-0-0 to start in his NHL career and his awesome 1.74GAA, .933SV% is enough to warm any crease.

Ryan Getzlaf. Leading the team in both shots on goal (31) AND faceoff win percentage (53.4%). Makes you feel slappy, doesn’t it?

Teemu Selanne. Leading the Ducks in scoring (4-10=14).

Nick Bonino. For hatties and shootout glory.

The Kings. They’re 12th in the West.

Bruce Boudreau. Not sure if it’s those pudgy cupid-like cheeks or his coaching the Ducks to a 9-2-1 record that makes me love him more.

Saku Koivu. Tied for first in the NHL with a plus-11. His teammates Francois Beauchemin and Sheldon Souray are a plus-10 and forward Daniel Winnik is a plus-9.

Matt Beleskey. Despite his TOI average of 11:25 and his constant shuffle throughout the line-up, he’s leading the team with 34 hits.

Not being Matt Cooke or Erik Karlsson.

Need your shot blocked? Call on Francois Beauchemin and Toni Lydman. They’re tied with 24 each.

Special teams. Somehow, even though it’s the ugliest thing in the NHL, the Ducks power play is 7th, 23.1%. I can’t imagine how ugly everyone else’s PP must look! Their penalty killing, on the other hand, is an awful 69.6%, 29th in the league. Doesn’t seem right, does it?

Corey Perry. Despite his only having one goal credited to his name (he’s scored twice in the shootout now), his team is fifth in the league in goals scored with 39.

Hockey weekend across America!

Andrew Cogliano. For not giving up, despite the time on the clock and the lack of a helmet on his head.

Jonas Hiller and Cam Fowler. To making a full and speedy recovery.

GO DUCKS!!!

Game Recap: Ducks Get/Steal Two in Chicago

SK eleven — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 05:09:02 -0000

Final Score: [Ducks 3, Blackhawks 2: Shootout]

First Period Recap:

The Ducks took to the ice and played a strong first period. It was obvious that a day off did them well as they kept pace with a Chicago team that definitely enjoys an uptempo game.

While the Ducks would find a way to take a silly too-many-men bench minor, they boosted their confidence with an early penalty kill. Despite some solid work, and a shorthanded chance by Corey Perry, Corey Crawford would prove on this instance, and far too many others on this night, that he would not be bested.

The Ducks penalty kill proved to remain competent against a very lethal Hawks power play, but it was their own power play opportunity that just looked down right ugly.

Second Period Recap:

The scoring finally got going in the second period when Daniel Winnik drew a penalty giving the Ducks another power play opportunity. Great work entering the offensive zone saw Nick Bonino make a move around the Chicago defenders to pass the puck up to Ryan Getzlaf. His attempted pass to a wide open Perry on the opposite of the crease found an open Brent Seabrook's stick instead, and the Ducks went up 1-0.

However, it wasn't until Brad Staubitz took to the ice that the Ducks found themselves in trouble. Getzlaf was the recipient of a solid hit from Bryan Bickell in the corner of the Ducks zone, and it was one that Staubitz didn't feel should be overlooked. He quickly attacked Bickell and drew an instigator penalty and a 10:00 minute misconduct in addition to the 5:00 for fighting.

The momentum had changed.

Chicago would score on that very power play to tie the game at 1-1.

Shortly after, the Ducks would be the victim of a scare as Viktor Fasth went down in the crease to block an ambush of players tying to poke the puck into the net. His arm appeared to twist in an awkward fashion while reaching for the puck and this caused the goalie to seek attention from the training staff. Fortunately he was given a few moments of rest as the scramble in front of the net was reviewed for a possible goal.

To the dismay and disbelief of Ducks fans everywhere, the controversial goal was reviewed by the war room in Toronto and deemed a good goal. Take a look at the highlights to get a better idea of the call made by Toronto.

Despite having a 5-on-3 power play and drawing another penalty in the final minute of the second period, the Ducks would go to the locker room down 2-1.

Third Period Recap:

On the power play to start the third, the Ducks were unable to make anything happen. No surprises there. It has something to do with passing and not shooting that are currently the troubles plaguing the Ducks.

Thankfully, the Ducks showed they still have fight in their game. With much of the action going back and forth, they were able to keep the Blackhawks at bay. Persistence wins in the end, however, as Andrew Cogliano gets to the net and pots a rebound late in the third to send the Ducks into overtime.

Overtime:

The Ducks were shorthanded (4-on-3) for nearly 4 of the 5 minute session. That is a lot of time and extra space on the ice for lethal players like Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane. Enough said.

Shootout:

Toews: SCORE

Bonino: SCORE!

Kane: save

Perry: SCORE!

Saad: save

**********

The Good: Two points. There's no dancing around it, the Ducks got two points against the biggest threat in the league. It would have been awesome to not give the Blackhawks any points in return, but hey - let's not be picky, shall we?

The Bad: The Ducks are starting to suffer from the lack of production from their big boys. Yes, it is fantastic to see that all 4 (well, usually 3) lines are rolling well and playing equal amounts of time throughout the game, but the lack of scoring from players like Perry is really beginning to hurt. Just one goal tonight would have made the difference between regulation and overtime. I'm hoping Perry breaks through soon - for the Ducks offense and his own mentality.

The Ugly: Special teams, most particularly the power play, boggle my mind. How you don't score on a 5-on-3 is absurd and quite frankly unacceptable. Bruce Boudreau might be doing wonders with the Ducks line up as a whole, but his special teams need some serious attention!

**********

3rd MVD: Viktor Fasth. Let's face it, the Ducks were up against some hot goaltending in Crawford, but were lucky enough to have some great work on the other end. Fasth really held his own during the excessive penalties and particularly the two 4-on-3 penalty kill's the Ducks faced in the overtime session. However, after seeing the guy shake off what could have been an unfortunate injury to stay in the game AND take care of business in the shootout, it's hard not to salute the guy

2nd MVD: Daniel Winnik. He may not be scoring goals, but he's drawing penalties, back-checking like a beast and he's never afraid to battle along the boards. His effort isn't something that appears on the score sheet every night, but I definitely approve of his work ethic.

1st MVD: Timely goal scorers. Andrew Cogliano and Nick Bonino in particular. Hell, even Corey Perry has a place on this list. Cogliano's late goal in the third to tie the game is a great example of how this team is willing to fight til the very end. And who knew we had such a hot hand in Bonino, the shootout king?! Not to mention, if Perry can't score in regulation, I'll gladly let the guy tally some goals in the shootout that merely count as game winners. Best thing about it is that he's FINALLY figured out that his stupid swing wide approach doesn't work.

Next Game: Friday, February 15, 2013 @ Detroit 4:30pm

SBNation.com User Blog: SK eleven

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