This is only 1/2 the battle...

I wish there were a few more days in between games against the Sharks. A few more days to keep my blood pressure under control. A few more days to let the boys rest their bones.

Then again...let's get this weekend over with already.

I think the NHL schedule makers designed this back to back weekend intentionally, probably hoping it would be a tight race for the Pacific Division title. While it's not a race for the title, it's a very important weekend for BOTH teams. The Sharks looking for the Presidents trophy and a hold on first place in the Western Conference (home ice advantage of course) the Ducks are looking to just STAY IN playoff positioning.

That makes for some niiiiiiice hockey, doesn't it?

The Ducks came out strong to begin with. I can't complain. Solid shots on goal is a big deal for this team. TAKING shots is one thing...but taking SMART shots is another thing all together. Big shots from the point lead to moving bodies, open spaces and eventually a beautiful backhand pass from Ryan Getzlaf to a wide open Bobby Effin Ryan for his first goal of the night ("first goal of the night"...oh man, I just love typing that!). These two would continue to light it up for the rest of the evening.

Getzlaf gets another huge assist moments later to set up a Corey Perry goal. Again, knowing that this line is clicking and striking while hot...I can't get enough. Getzlaf, with 64 assists this season, passes the Ducks' single season record previously held by Paul Kariya (62 assists). Great. I'll be honest, I don't have the bad blood against Kariya that most Ducks fans do, but I will say this...I LOVE seeing these kids put their names on Ducks history. Especially when we're taking about the potential future of this franchise. Plus, we ALL know that Bobby Effin Ryan is a WAY better rookie than Dustin Penner was! Effin is now the all time Ducks leader for goals by a rookie with 30 on the year - in ONLY 61 games played. In addition, Perry netted his 30th goal of the season, a career high for him. What a night for new records!

If you're looking for confirmation that these guys were hot tonight...

"They were flat-out dominant," Sharks coach Todd McLellan said of the Ducks' high-scoring line. "They were the top players in the game. We had last change, we could have matched anybody we wanted, but it wouldn't have mattered. They were playing that well." Associated Press

I couldn't agree more. To see Getzlaf finding his stride again, only means he'll be taking Perry with him. Fantastic. And Effin? Well, he'll be there no matter who he's playing with.

In addition to a smoking hot first line, that 4th line has been working hard and it's paying off. "Ducks in a Row" today was damn accurate today thanks to some hard work by George Parros, Erik Christensen and Mike Brown (and of course DIAR also predicted goals by Effin and a great showing by Hiller in net). Huge goal for Brown, he's a hard working guy who was reward tonight. NICE JOB BUD! The play by the 3rd and 4th line has been very physical lately (duh), but it means so much to the Ducks' success. Fighting for lose pucks along the boards, getting into open spaces, and driving the net. These guys are making strong names for themselves on the defensive end and then capitalizing with huge goals! Secondary scoring is huge for any team, and when you have a team with 2 amazing lines like the Ducks do, secondary scoring is ALWAYS a bonus, a motivating boost, a spark of fire, a HUGE thorn in the sides of the opposition. Give me more! If the Ducks continue to see hard fought battles from everyone on the ice, like they have been lately, there is very little doubt in my mind that..........well, I'll let everyone think about this one themselves.

So I have one negative for the night...

I hate hearing phrases like, "one hands it". To me, that is a direct indication that you're not moving your feet enough. MOVE YOUR FEET! Those lazy plays cause turnovers and the inability to clear the puck out of the zone. That leads to PENALTIES and/or GOALS!! KILLER! The Ducks felt the effects of that a few times tonight, and the outcome could have been way worse! The consecutive penalties to start the 2nd period were very unfortunate...and yet the Ducks managed to only give up one goal with those opportunities. PHEW!

Which leads me to Jonas Hiller. I don't know if he's going to be in net tomorrow night, but I think that there is a very great chance that we'll be seeing him again. I think that Randy Carlyle is going to be forced to play the man who beat the Sharks tonight. I could be wrong, but I don't expect to see JS Giguere in there. Hiller played a very solid game, made some huge saves and for the most part, did very well at "giving the team a chance to win". He had some scary moments from time to time, but for the most part he was squared to the puck. He was given a big break by roughed up Sheldon Brookbank (did you see that black eye? OUCH!) in the final moments of the 3rd when the Ducks were killing off Chris Pronger's interference call. Brookbank was just another guy on a long list of Ducks who have gone above and beyond to sacrifice themselves this season to stop a potential goal. I love seeing the dedication to this team.

Something else I noticed tonight, it seemed that simply clearing the puck from the zone...VERY difficult for the Ducks. Yet, clearing the puck from the front of the net...VERY SUCCESSFUL!

So we'll end on a positive...

The best part of this game. Even in the third period, the Ducks were still playing hard. Still trying to force San Jose to turn the puck over. Still getting pucks in deep and still trying to score goals. Smart move, because these Sharks can be lethal...they can turn a game around in a heart beat.

Tomorrow is not going to be easy. The Sharks are hot and now they're pissed because they just lost to the team barely holding to the 7th position in the fight for the post season. Good, a fired up opposition means the Ducks will have to bring 150% and they know that.

We're 1/2 way through this battle...

DAMN! This feels goooooood doesn't it?

GO DUCKS!!!

They can't all be Colorado

WOW, I wish the Ducks could play Colorado EVERY NIGHT!

That whole game was something else wasn't it?

I got so many Twitter messages last night where people were just in SHOCK of what they were seeing.

Okay, but lets be realistic. Colorado is just awful. They have a whole rosters worth of guys out with injuries...and if you thought the Ducks were suffering through the season with newbies...the Avalanche are really struggling with no one like Scott Niedermayer or Chris Pronger out there to back those young guys up.

Wow, did it show.

First off...fantastic goals for the newest members of the team, who in reality are starting to look like they've been there since day one. Erik Christensen, James Wisniewski and Petteri Nokelainen. Seeing those guys contribute the way they have been lately makes trade deadline drama seem not so terrible. What I'm loving about the new group is that they're fighters. They're here trying to prove themselves (hopefully for spots on next years roster) and are working hard to show their teammates and the Ducks fans that they're worth something. That hard work pays off huge! For instance, Nokelainen's goal (the Ducks' 7th goal of the night) came from hard work and hustle along the neutral zone boards. He fought for the puck, stayed with the play and ended up with a mini breakaway which resulted in his 3rd goal of the season. Now that he's had the sit down with Corey Perry about rushing the net, maybe it's time he has a sit down with Ryan Getzlaf on how to win battles along the boards. Couldn't hurt.

I felt bad for Colorado at first and then I remembered what happened to the Ducks with Atlanta...and yea, not the same entirely...but damn it felt good to cream someone for a change! Between the recent Phoenix game and this game last night, it sure makes the fact that the Ducks have two more against these teams all the better.

I said I wanted to see that top line looking hot. You look at the goal scorers and you say, hey Perry had two...that line must have been hot! NOT! Both of Perry's goals came with the PP unit on the ice. I can't complain with the fact that the top line didn't shine and the big names didn't get points (nothing for Ryan Getzlaf, Scott Niedermayer, Chris Pronger and Bobby Ryan), but whatever...I'll take seven Ducks goals ANY DAY!

And again, Jonas Hiller was solid. He had his work cut out for him in the end as Colorado got 27 SOG in the final two periods of play. Clearly out shooting Anaheim in a desperation attempt to get back into the game. Randy Carlyle definitely did the gentleman thing in not making the scoreboard worse. Allowing the guys like Todd Marchant, George Parros and Mike Brown get in some more ice time, Carlyle took the focus off of trying to score and simply went with a defensive outlook for much of the third. Classy if you ask me. In addition, it allowed the big D men, Niedermayer and Pronger, to get some rest and play far fewer minutes than they have been averaging lately.

5 straight wins is nothing to brag about when it comes against teams like Phoenix (twice) and Colorado. But when you're in desperation-playoff-hunt like the Ducks are right now, 10 points is nothing to be upset about!

In the mean time...

GO DUCKS!!!

Oh! We have met before

So my favorite thing about the game...(minus the win and 2 points which I'm VERY excited about...VERY...)

The Power Play and Penalty kill was rocking and the return of Ryan Getzlaf.

After struggling so much on both ends of the ice, the PP and the PK really turned it on last night. I know there were alot of people who were worried when we lost the defensive shut down powers of Samuel Pahlsson and Travis Moen...but the aggressive speed and checking abilities that both Todd Marchant and Mike Brown have been bringing to the PK these past few games is quite noticeable. I'll be honest, I was ready to see Marchant hit the road, but lately he's really turned it on. I see both he and Brown out there with speed and intensity and it's exciting to watch. In addition it must be noted that George Parros getting a goal last night was huge. The Ducks need contributions from all lines, and seeing those guys step it up the way they have been lately is so important. The Ducks definitely brought energy to the game, which is really what those guys are all about. The Ducks power play was on a 1-for-28 stretch and have recently gone 7-for-12 over the past three games. Let's hope that one continues.

Ryan Getzlaf. Who wasn't happy to see that guy show up last night? The 3rd goal of the evening was a mini indication of the way that top line clicks with each other. There were times during the first period where I could see them reading each other perfectly. It really was beautiful to watch for a change. For the most part I hate to add videos to these blogs unless I really feel they are necessary and I think this goal is necessary to watch again (1:20).



First of all, let it be noted that Corey Perry just barely stays onside here. He's infamous for going offsides, and for the most part, unless he's taking the puck across the blue line himself, watch it...cause there's going to be a whistle. Anyway, to the point. The play, the spacing, it's all perfect. A beautiful cross ice pass from Bobby Effin Ryan to Getzlaf, and some slick puck handling to Perry, who I'm assuming had that sit down I suggested with Petteri Nokelainen about charging the net a bit more. When things like this happen, when passes like these are connected, when plays like these are executed, the team is going to win. No kidding, right?

With that being said, one of the major changes I noticed tonight was some presence at the net. That's been lacking so much lately, but with that man in front, 3 of the Ducks goals were tip in/redirect style goals. They need those opportunities, they need a man at the net. It's huge for their success and they haven't been doing it enough lately.

Jonas Hiller was solid again last night. So great to see that right now. It seems to me that if the Ducks are going to have a chance at the playoffs, Hiller is going to have to be in net for a majority of the remaining games. Plain and simple.

So is it just that the Ducks beat a crappy team? Or is it that the Ducks have found some fire in their game?

Is it going to carry over? If the Ducks want a chance at the post season...it sure as hell better.

This might just be the best showing the Ducks have had at home since game 5 against San Jose, where they shut them out 4-0, game 11 against Detroit and game 12 against Vancouver where they fought to send both of those games into overtime, and ultimately Vancouver into the crazy 13 round shootout. What's the good news in that? The Ducks looked so much better during that time of the season. Minus the terrible start, the Ducks then went 8-3-2 in the month of November and received points in 9 straight games spanning from October 21 - November 5. The Ducks really need an October/November right now and this game may have just been the spark they were looking for.

Warning to the friends; get out the oxygen tank. This is the beginning of the playoffs people. Seemingly, every game is must win- or go home. I foresee potential hyperventilation factors coming into play and soon I expect them to ask me if I'm going to pass out.

I love it!

GO DUCKS!!!

Pick your poison

It really wont matter what option you chose, they're both lose - lose.

So do you want to go with the team that works harder than normal, but is going to be relying on the net minder who lets by soft goals on a regular basis. OR, do you want the team that spends 98% of the game chasing their opponent (they turn it on for about 2 minutes of the entire game...not a CONSECUTIVE 2 minutes, but beggars can't be choosers), but have maybe a little more confidence in the man between the pipes. For all purposes, these are the Ducks we're seeing here.

Friday night we see a Ducks team work hard and just not get the bounces. Just not get that one extra hop that puts the puck in the back of the net. However, they were also the team with JS Giguere in the net. Soft goal after not in position goal after how did you miss that?

Then tonight, the Ducks act as if they've got nothing to play for. No reason to skate hard. No reason to make clean passes. They don't want the post season. They're already envisioning relaxing on the beach, spending time with the family at the lake. They're on vacation...the fans are just paying to watch them get there. Jonas Hiller on the other hand...that guy is still trying. He had some fabulous saves tonight, saves that Jiggy would NOT have made in my opinion.

So which crappy team do you want? They're both for sale right now.

fa la la......... do you hear that? The Fat Lady is warming up.

So I'm going to go all "coach SK" for a minute...

One thing I think we can ALL agree on is that this team needs to move their feet. They are SO damn lazy it out there, it's sickening to watch.

I don't think it was until the final minutes of the 3rd period that I noticed some hitting. The 3rd period? YOU KIDDING ME?! It's one thing that I appreciate when I see George Parros and Ryan Carter on the ice. I know those guys are going to go out there and be aggressive. I don't think it's ironic that we see that 4th line controlling the puck in the Ducks offensive zone! Which brings me to the next point. That 4th line would probably be alot more effective offensively if they played together more. That line gets jumbled up SO much that they never really get to know one anothers habits. Give them the damn time to try and develop SOMETHING!

Okay, so the top line of Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Erik Christensen. It's wrong. I think Mike Brown should be playing with Getzlaf and Perry. I'd hate to demote Christensen so soon, and I'm not demoting him because I don't think he's a good enough player (I haven't made that distinction yet), but we know that Getzlaf and Perry need a guy who's going to be scrappy and quick...I think that guy is Brown. I've already said that I think he reminds me alot of Kunitz in his style of play...so let's see it happen.

Speaking of Getzlaf and Perry...what the hell is going on there? Getzlaf needs to "KOBE IT UP AND TAKE A SHOT!" (suggestion courtesy of Ramon and Mini). The overabundance of passing is getting old. This team doesn't pass well enough to make that an effective part of their game. (UPDATED -- well I read this on OC Register this morning...it's basically Getzlaf talking about his shooting/lack there of)

Personally, I'd almost rather see Perry hang out in front of the net more. Take some more goalie interference penalties for all I care...but if it means a few more goals get through, so be it!

Here's another obvious for everyone...

The Ducks have an insanely serious habit of letting that first goal get by within the first minute of the game. Here's what that does:

Team gets down...goalie gets down...fans get down...fans aren't loud, supportive, cheering...team isn't motivated, sparked...goalie isn't protected, assisted...goal, goal, goal...by the OTHER team!! It's a vicious cycle, one where after the first goal gets by...everyone on the Ducks side is prepared to throw in the towel. SHAME! BREAK THE CYCLE!!!!!!!!!!

So remember back at the beginning of 2009 I said I was going to be more positive? Well this team is sure making that hard to do.

I want to have something positive to say...but I'll be damned if I can come up with anything.

I have a prediction for the rest of the season, but I won't be sharing until after the regular season is over.

oh yea...GO DUCKS!!! Try not to embarrass yourselves too much the rest of the way.

Impressive...

Glad the Ducks finally played a game they deserved to win.

Okay, so we see another 4-3 score on the big board, but for the most part, I'd say that is a very big misrepresentation of what actually happened.

The Ducks definitely controlled much of the game. Some sloppy play in the third, which they are known to do, but for the most part, things seemed to be clicking.

Bobby Ryan is clearly not a fluke, as he seems to just get better and better with each game. Literally FLYING to the net for the Ducks' first goal of the game (from what I will admit was a nice feed from Brendan Morrison), was a momentum changer. A CRAZY goal was scored off the helmet of Bobby Holik (that being his second goal of the year by the way)to get the Devils on the board early, but I'd definitely say it was all Ducks from that point on.

The highlight of the evening was what turned out to be the GWG by Chris Kunitz. The top line had a great 1-2-3 play that really showed what was missing from having Corey Perry out the past 4 games.

Now I have to give myself a little pat on the back...
My Earl Sleek BoC inspired prediction went VERY well if you ask me.

Corey Perry had himself a big night with 2 assists...okay, so I said goal and assist, but I'll take it!

Bobby Ryan had a goal...not on the PP like predicted, but a goal none the less...I'll take it!

Ryan Getzlaf didn't get into a stupid uneccesary fight! I'll take it!

George Parros ALMOST fought there in the 3rd...but since I don't like fights anyway...I'll take it!

My "why the heck not" prediction was most impressive...Travis Moen gets an assist on a Sammy Pahlsson goal...how beautiful was that?! I'll take it!

Finally, Jiggy lets 2+1 by. He really only let 2 get by...one kind of questionable, the other...kinda by Travis Moen.

Ducks win...I'LL TAKE IT! :)

I'll have another one for Wednesday cause...why not, it's fun!

GO DUCKS!!!!!

This is what happens when you're trying to keep your roster spot

Well...

Where do I begin on this Friday morning. How about by first saying, I imagine there will be many edits to this particular blog, as it seems that I STILL can't put into words last night.

I want to set up my yesterday a bit first. I want it to be known that much like I felt the trade coming on, I also felt a bit "iffy" about the Ducks chances yesterday before even getting to the game. There are some mornings when I wake up, and I can already sense a loss. It's sad I know...sad that I even have these feelings and feel that I have to voice them, and worse that well, I'm usually pretty dead on.

So yesterday at Staples meant a few things. One, I hate going to Staples. Two, probably had the best seats of my hockey watching life. Three, fantastic company (more on that in a bit). Four, having to deal with being in someone else's house. Five, Kings fans are more annoying than most. Six, listening to fans promote who they hate. Seven, finding it necessary to disclose this stupid list in the first place.

Like I said, probably the best seats thus far. I know I've mentioned before my young hockey "age", but I've definitely been to my fair share of games without being a season seat holder (a fact of my life I'm hoping to change for next season). About 98% of my game experience has come thanks to Ramon and Mini who are season seat holders and take me to many games...for which I'll forever be grateful. In addition, this year, UJ has become a fan. This means...getting to go to even more games and always means fantastic seats. No matter what, I can't complain about where I'm sitting, I just want to be there. I want to walk into the office the next day, much like today, with NO VOICE. I love being there cheering on the Ducks and I love it even more when they give me things to cheer about. So that being said, last night takes the cake in terms of viewing pleasure. In addition to the great seats was fantastic company. UJ, for one, who was able to witness a very exciting game as well as the general group sitting around us. For the most part we were surrounded by Kings fans. There were a few near by Ducks fans, and one in particular was most enjoyable. We were joined by a gentleman who works with Chris Prongers' brother, Sean. He was so nice as to pass along a message to him that I'm eagerly awaiting his next blog post (which if you haven't read, is fantastic, I suggest you do so). Sean Pronger says he's working on it. The three of us talked alot about Ducks hockey, how great Bobby Ryan and Jonas Hiller have been playing lately (that was BEFORE the game I mind you) and a few thoughts on other players as well...::coughmorrisoncough:: Just as the third period was about to start he turned to me and said something like this...
"So here's the game plan, we need to get at least one goal here in the first ten minuets to get back into this thing." I suggested that it would be just fine with me if we got that first goal in 5 minuets, hell, I'd even take one in the first 2. Well, 2 minuets later thanks to Bobby Ryan, the game was tied. Neither of us had any complaints! It was a pleasure meeting him and I hope to see him at Honda Center in the future.

Bobby Ryan.

This was my thought last night after the game when he was the only thing I could think about after a poor showing by the majority of the Ducks' roster.

Last year during his 20 or so games that he played in a Ducks uniform he was a 3rd round pick at best...that might even be pushing it.

Last night...no, this season...he has been showing the NHL why he came in #2.

It was a real treat to see what he single handedly did last night. I say single handedly because for the most part, there was NO help from anyone else. I have a question. What do you think the mentality of the "veteran" players was last night after the game? Do you think they looked over at Ryan and thought to themselves, "Wow, not only did that kid just show us what he's made of, but he made us look like fools. We did NOTHING to help him but stand around on the ice for 50 minuets."? (they did manage to play a bit there in the 3rd, thanks in part to the Ryan spark.)

One thing I did notice last night, and please...someone correct me if I'm wrong. But I BELIEVE that Bobby Ryan was put on the 4th line again with Ryan Carter and George Parros during the beginning of the 3rd? I know Carter got an assist on the 2nd goal, and I was watching the replay of the beautiful pass from Ryan Getzlaf on the 3rd goal which means he was on the ice during that play as well. It just seems he played much of the rest of the night alongside Carter and Parros. I must say though, I think a Ryan-Carter combo would be fantastic (I'm going to go ahead at this point and officially say that I love the "Ryans"...all three of them, and yes Carter is my favorite.)

So yea, there were some other notes to make as well about last night.

I can't believe JS Giguere was in net to start the game. I figured with the way Hiller had been playing, the way that he showed up against the Kings the previous game, he was a guarantee for last night. Guess I was wrong. I do think however, that if he was in net to start the game, the Ducks may have pulled out a victory. I can honestly say that I don't feel like I've seen Jiggy at 100% so far this season. He's had some great games, don't get me wrong, but just not 100% Jiggy. I've mentioned this elsewhere as well, but I am starting to feel like maybe Hiller is on the upward end of the slope and that Jiggy is on the downward end. Unfortunate. If you didn't see the game last night, here's a good idea of what happened to Jiggy.

“I didn’t think he was square to the puck in the first goal and I didn’t think he was square to the puck…the puck, in my mind, should not go in from those angles on the stick side on both goals. So, I made the decision,” Carlyle said.OC REGISTER

--
Tonight, the Lightning come to Anaheim (get over it Ramon). I don't think I've ever actually watched them play, so this will be a first for me. Hope to be there...

GO DUCKS! Go show Bobby Ryan that just because you're not all Rookies trying to keep your spot on the roster and are willing to work your butts off too, that you're going to play as hard as he does. THANKS!

More of the same, please!

It's so much easier to talk about the game when you've actually seen it!! Good thing I was at the game last night!

Lets start with some good news...
Found! Corey Perry getting a goal last night on what was a beautiful set of passes between he and Chris Kunitz. It was a beautiful play that had the Wild defensemen...going wild! They were strewn about and laying on the ice just trying to intercept one of the beautiful cross ice passes between Perry and Kunitz. Glad to remove you from the milk carton Perry. In addition this reward was given...

A win!

Your replacement however...

MISSING: POWER PLAY SCORING. The Ducks have 2 Power Play goals in their last 20 attempts (5 games dating back to 12/3 against Chicago)! 10%! Some 5 on 3 chances and a 4 minute man advantage against the Wild last night are among a few of the missed opportunities. (On a side note...the PK is 83% killing off the last 19 of 23 opportunities in those same 5 games).

REWARD IF FOUND: Some potential goals for Teemu Selanne since we all know he won't be getting any of them while playing with you know who.

Chris Pronger was the silent man last night. Making a quiet but deadly impact with 2 assists and some fancy floor work blocking shots. I was thinking he was going to make the milk carton this morning because he seems to be off his game a bit lately...but instead decided to put up a search for the Power Play instead.

Another highlight goal of the night was (ha! I know you aren't expecting that guy are you?) the great feed to Bobby Ryan from George Parros. After practically getting his head taken off... Ryan was in the perfect position to receive a great pass from Parros who capitalized on a Wild turnover with a wide open net for Ryan in return. Funny, wouldn't you think that as a goalie you'd be more mindful of a wide open Bobby Ryan than a guy like George Parros? Whatever, it seems like lately they'll both make you pay for mistakes. Beautiful. Just as enjoyable was watching the two of them celebrating the goal. I guess when you aren't scoring points on a regular basis, every goal is a treat! Parros already having a career season is on course to possibly double his all time points in just a matter of a few games. Before this season began his total career numbers were 4-7=11 points (dating back to his first season with the Kings in 2005/2006). This season alone the Stache has posted 3-5=8 points. After 31 games played he's on pace for 21 points this season! Bring em Georgie!!

Anyway, if you missed any of the action, be sure to check out Ducks TV. Great highlights of all 4 goals are shown.

GO DUCKS!!!!

OH! I'd just like to point this out too...about the company you keep...
Ryan Getzlaf is currently 4th in the league in scoring just behind Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin. I don't know what that says to any of you...but to me it says that this guy is seriously one of the best players in the league! OH HEY...it also means...he's NUMBER ONE IN THE WEST!!!!!!!!And yet...he's not in the starting lineup for the All Star game. Maybe Ducks fans are showing that they aren't currently in the top 4 on the list of the best fans in the league (did that one sting a bit? I hope it did cause I'm trying to light a fire here!). Prove me wrong people, cause I think we all know he should be there and I REALLY don't want to be right about the fans.

When it seems like there is nothing

Just when I thought I'd have to talk about the Ducks continuing their destruction throughout the league...

Sutherby heads to Dallas.

I'm always surprised and shocked whenever I see players traded. I don't know why.
Anyway, I can't help but think that perhaps Sutherby is going for a couple of reasons. One, this current injury he is nursing that doesn't seem to be getting any better with time. Two, I'm wondering if the way the 4th line has been playing together without him has any influence as well. Between Brian Sutherby, Georege Parros, Brad May and Ryan Carter, that line had been shuffled quite a bit. However, since Ryan Carter has stepped into the role on that All American line along side Bobby Ryan and George Parros, there has been a definite spark. This was even more so evident in the last game against the Sharks when Ryan and Carter were playing along side Teemu Selanne for much of the game. Perhaps Sutherby suddenly became expendable?

I'm going to need to see more identification please

The friends asked if I was going to cut Brendan Morrison some slack after scoring the game winner. Ha! Hardly. It's going to take way more than one GWG for me to overlook the first 28 games buddy. I'm still begging for that guy to make me eat my words! PLEASE! 7 points in 29 games is not enough. Over at Anaheim Ducks, it appears that Morrison only needs 19 more points until reaching 500 career points. After doing the math, he's averaging just 1 point every 4 games. Meaning, he's only going to get approximately 13 points on the rest of the season (with only 53 regular seasons games left). I'd be surprised to see him get that many. It doesn't appear we'll be celebrating that milestone anytime soon.

So that Ryan Carter sure seems to be laying a path of destruction huh? I wonder if he's going to just go around the league taking out players. He's been back for two games and has caused both Ole-Kristian Tollefsen and Manny Legace to leave the game because they felt "woozy" (a term not used often enough if you ask me). Interesting game plan there buddy. He's been doing some good for the Ducks. Really helping out on the 4th (All American) line with goals, throwing some punches (although, here it looks like he's ready to do some slapping) and continuing to bring this mad energy. I personally love seeing him out there (that's a mild understatement actually).

So again, UJ still doing some hockey learning...taking names making notes. I think it's safe to say he's a big Ryan Getzlaf fan. He can see that guy is a superstar and recognizes Corey Perry as well. Last night he learned the magic that is Chris Kunitz!!! I tried to point out some of the things that I think Kunitz brings to the team and UJ seemed to notice. Kunitz is his OWN energy line. He plays every game like he's been threatened to be the next healthy scratch. He is a play maker. He works hard down low, in the corners, the neutral zone, on the attack, around the net. He plays great with...EVERYONE. The silent killer that will get you the puck in open spaces. 2 goals, creating turnovers...playing spitfire Kuni hockey. AWESOME... Mini loved it too... He's her fave! Kunitz is way more valuable than the 19 points he's posted thus far and not enough people seem to notice. Shame.

Getzlaf is unreal. It was VERY scary during the first when he took a puck off the foot and hobbled to the bench. It was one of those moments where I couldn't help but pay more attention to the bench for a few minuets wondering if he was going to return (perhaps it was the bad luck of getting the teeth fixed. John Ahlers called them his new chiclets last night. I had to laugh because that was the nickname that my friends and I had given to Mathieu Schneider when he was a Duck). It was a good thing when he did return. His pass under the arms of Carlo Colaiacovo to a waiting Kunitz was perfect. I don't know how you can't love Ryan Getzlaf...he's amazing. I don't have a favorite...but......

I'm not going to say it.

George Parros. There is a guy who is making me the fool! Just keep it coming! In previous seasons I couldn't stand that guy. I never understood why he was such a fan favorite...must be my lack of interest in the fighting. This season however, the guy has shown up and is actually playing like a hockey player! I love it! His goal made me laugh a little. Down on one knee and everything. Like he's been showboating that move for years or something. I honestly didn't expect this from him this season, and I'm welcoming it...gladly. I might even have to go get me a Parros shirt or something. (I guess not all is lost for Morrison...HA!)

Inexplicably absent from the game was Chris Pronger. Other than the questionable interference call in the 3rd (one that mostly read..."I'm calling this penalty because you are Chris Pronger and your 38 PIM isn't enough for the NHL, they asked me to put you in the box tonight."), he seemed to be missing from action. Sloppy passes, unable to clear the puck and his lazy skating was however, VERY noticeable.

I kinda don't know what to say about this though...Baby Backs. Heels on ice? Really? OOOkay.

GO DUCKS!!!!!!

Let's talk Ryan...

Which one?

Pick one. Getzlaf, Carter, Bobby...they all had equally exciting nights.

Let's start with Ryan...uh...Bobby. Bobby Ryan is doing what I think everyone is hoping he will do. Show up. He's playing strong hockey no matter what line he's on. Starting with the 4th line tonight, he had an outstanding pass to a wide open Ryan Carter. It was a beautiful pass THROUGH the defenseman's leg. Then in the third he gets his own pushing and shoving goal!!! It's clear hes thinking out there and working hard to make smart plays. I LIKE IT!

So now lets do Ryan Carter...
The guy is back for his first game after missing too many and he's already doing WAY MORE than...well, you know. On the receiving end of Bobby Ryan's perfect pass, his speed finds him in the open space for a great touch into the back of the net. I think he came out to show that he doesn't want to be a healthy scratch again any time soon (FINE BY ME!). I hate the fighting as it is, and I hate it even more when someone gets hurt and his crazy and somewhat frightening fight where he sent Ole-Kristian Tollefsen to the ice was probably one of the sour notes on the night. But I'm willing to look past that.

Last and most definitely NOT LEAST, Ryan Getzlaf. I wanted so badly wanted him to get a hat trick. It would have been perfect finish after being the "spotlight" of the night for the KDOC broadcast and after getting the Anaheim Ducks 3,000 all time goal (he awkward congratulated HIMSELF during his star of the night interview...very funny). VERY EXCITING! What a way for the "FRANCHISE" to make his mark. Anyway, he had a great opportunity for it in the 3rd when he had a breakaway opportunity only to make too many moves and get the puck tangled up in the skates of the defenseman. When is too early to start thinking about giving someone who has a 5 year contract an extension?

Other fantastic notes of the night, George Parros has really impressed me this year. Again, I'm not a fan of the fighting, so in previous seasons I haven't really been a Parros fan. But this year he has really shown some improvement and I don't fear it so much when I see the 4th line on the ice anymore. His two assists, were a career high for him. Happy to see it!

After giving up two quick goals in the end of the 3rd, Rob Niedermayer gets his 6th of the season to put an end to the 3rd period comeback madness.

So in the end I want to say thank you Ryan...Getzlaf, Carter, Bobby for a fantastic showing tonight. I think you all played your parts wonderfully.

...more later...?

1,000 happies

First off, Congrats to Bret Hedican and his 1,000 NHL career games (that was actually played one week prior in St. Louis where he started his career). I was late to the game and didn't see the milestone ceremony until I watched the game again at home (yes, it seems as though I can't get enough Ducks hockey)...but he was VERY eager to get that recognition over with wasn't he? They had to call him back for some more pictures and just when he thought it was over, they called him back for more. Funny.

It was a...good...game for the Ducks. A win is a win, and I wont complain about that. For the most part, I don't think they played fantastic and they definitely got lucky more than a few times...but overall, a win is a win. It seemed like neither team could get control of he puck the entire game. It was a very back and forth kind of hustle. Very few penalties as well, which for the Ducks, is a GREAT thing!

Jonas Hiller gets his second career shutout. He was definitely lucky there during the second period when Chicago was on a power play with a WIDE open net for Dave Bolland who missed just wide. He also had some great saves as well. Overall, Hiller stepped into the action and played very well. I really like him, I think he does a great job out there. I honestly don't know who I'd pick between Hiller and Jiggy (you know, if my choice even mattered one bit).

The Ducks missed a few wide open opportunities as well. However, not giving up, Ryan Getzlaf had a beauty of a backhander that even HE didn't realize went in until the crowd and Corey Perry were cheering. Moments later Bobby Ryan came smashing into the celebration (he's very over zealous during those moments...that's enjoyable to see). That one goal was all that was needed to bring down the Blackhawks. The Ducks meet them again in less than a week in Chicago. I won't mention that upcoming game again.

Some big hits for the evening. A typical fight by George Parros lit a bit of a fuse I think, which is what the fighting is for right (ugh)? But a few HUGE hits by Ryan proved to be the highlight for the afternoon. A smash on Brent Seabrook followed up quickly by another on Kris Versteeg. The Ducks as a group were physical and it was enough to shut down the young guns on Chicago. But man, that Patrick Kane doesn't look any older than 14 does he?

I'm so excited to watch Sunday's game (insert your own hint of sarcasm). Who they are playing isn't important since...well I don't know about anyone else...I WON'T BE ABLE TO WATCH IT! The game will only be on radio, better than nothing right? Whatever.

On a much MUCH less important note, Brian Burke is officially with Toronto now. That's all I care to say about it.

On an exciting note...Happy Birthday Ramon! Loves.

GO DUCKS!

Revenge? It WOULD be sweet!

Tonight is going to be a big game for the Ducks. They have come very far in the last few weeks going 8-0-1 in the last nine games…fabulous. I don’t think it really matters what opponent from the Pacific Division comes into the Honda Center, fans know it’s going to be a battle. But this one, this one is important. The Ducks saw the Dallas Stars take away their opportunity to go back-to-back last year after convincingly knocking them out of the first round. I think this is the first game this season that EVERYONE is looking forward to. REVENGE!

I joke with my friends that the list of players on other teams that I actually LIKE is VERY short. I can’t help it, I’m Ducks biased. With that being said…the list of players I really DISlike is lengthy. One of those players at that top of that list? Marty Turco. That guy. In case you were wondering why…it’s stuff like this.

Anyway, the good news for the Ducks...the Stars (4-6-2) are in a bit of a funk and have lost their last 2 games (@ Chicago 2-5, @ Boston 1-5). The last game they played was this past Saturday, so hopefully they’ll be a bit rusty. Turco has a GAA of 4.34 and a SV% of .837. I’d love to say that’s good news for the Ducks, but I wouldn’t want them to get too far in over their heads. We see how the Ducks tend to come down to their opponent’s level and NOW is definitely not the time to allow that to happen. The Ducks are going to have to go into this game looking at it like it’s the playoffs all over again. They are going to have to treat Dallas the way they should be treating everyone else.

Another interesting note about this game will be the ever so lovely Sean Avery. He might actually be the one player that OTHER players have at the top of their DISlike list. I’m definitely not one for the fighting (I’m saving that rant for another day) but I do admit it would be really nice to have George Parros back in the lineup tonight. He seems to be progressing, but if he needs to be on the ice with the visor, it means he really isn’t going to be able to work his enforcer stuff to begin with, so the Ducks have been letting him rest. It would be nice to see him battle it out with Avery. In 12 games Avery has 7 points and 54 penalty minuets (2nd in the league).

Go Ducks…lets show them that this year you’re not going to take any of their crap! I want lots of hits and Ryan Getzlaf to take more than 2 shots!!!!