Nieder-lanne-ronger drama...the conclusion?

Get ready fans, these next few months are only going to get more and more interesting...with some tense days coming soon...very soon.

I only have one more thought on the Chris Pronger trade. A lot has been said of him recently (some good, more than his fair share of bad), fans who are sad to see him leave (me), those who are thrilled to see him go (your typical Pronger haters) and those who are looking at the whole picture (Ramon, UJ, many others...and slowly, but surely...me). I just want to make it clear, that while yes, his career has been somewhat controversial...I hope that ALL NHL fans around the league remember this one thing about him...

Fans don't boo nobodies.

So, please remember hockey fans...when you boo Pronger, it's because he's a real somebody...a force, a great defenseman...and someone out there (me) is a big fan. You are definitely lucky to have him on your roster for next season, Philly. Enjoy him.

-----

Okay, while the Chris Pronger era in Anaheim has officially come to a close, it's time to move on to next season with new, fresh, the same. As Joffrey Lupul prepares for his second run in Anaheim (minus all the "Mighty" stuff) and continues to think of ways to get number 15 back...the Ducks continue to roll out the carpet and welcome back the same 'ole faces...

Mr. Niedermayer (Scotty of course...you DO have to clarify these things sometimes). I am VERY happy to see that he is going to be returning to the Ducks next season, and I'm hoping at a cheaper price. However, with the recent loss of one GIANT defenseman, it's going to be vital that the Ducks are able to retain James Wisniewski AND/OR Francois Beauchemin (who I still predict will be playing for the Anaheim Ducks of Toronto next season...against my own personal wishes). As Ducks fans, we're all blessed to have a blueliner like Scott Niedermayer for a 5th season (WOW) and there is no doubting what he has brought to this franchise as a whole. By helping to put Anaheim into serious contention over the past few years (cup lifting and all), Scotty is exactly what the Ducks will need to make another run for the cup in 2010. Is it impossible to be done without him? No. Will it help? Hell yea.

Robbie? Well, that Niedermayer is sill a question mark.

Someone else who is likely to help make another serious run for the cup is Teemu Selanne. Returning once again this season for the second year on his current contract, Selanne will continue to threaten goalies once more. However, crucial to Selanne's success, will be the quality of his linemates. The Finnish Flash has shown no signs of slowing even with injuries sidelining him mid season. However, linemates who are able to get him the puck, fly with him through center ice, and take on the physical battles to give Selanne space and time will be crucial. Will Lupul be able to provide the speed, the physicality and the creativity required to play along side Selanne? Will the cheap Ryan Carter or Andrew Ebbett be slotted alongside the two? Bobby Effin Ryan? All of these questions will be answered once the season begins...or sooner depending on how the remainder of the off-season is handled.

Overall, the most important factor for the team this off-season is to address the need for second line scoring if they want to continue to be a Western Conference threat.

While it's great to see both Niedermayer and Selanne returning (and therefore quickly putting an end to the Nieder-lanne-ronger drama), there is SOOOOOO MUCH that needs to be done this off season for the Anaheim Ducks. Bob Murray has shown that he isn't afraid to move ANYONE. July 1st is just days away and fans are sure to see more names hit the headlines. I HOPE we see more names hit the headlines, because the fans want to see a successful year out of this franchise. We want WAY more than what we got out of the regular season, and definitely more in the post season!

Do your thing Murray, we'll all be watching, waiting, hoping...

GO DUCKS!!!

The shake will wait!

And the Ducks live to see another day (and so do I for that matter).

This was by far the best game the Ducks have played against Detroit thus far.

More importantly...this is the type of games the Ducks MUST play against Detroit.

What I love...

Puck movement. It was pleasantly nice for a change. Too fancy at times (Ryan Getzlaf...not everyone is you...please calm it down just a bit), but effective enough. The Ducks have a chip and chase method going on against Detroit and only when they are able to maintain control while playing this style will they be successful. Tonight, they were. In addition, they were able to get in Detroit's face, just enough, to disturb their puck movement. Making Detroit pay in the neutral zone is one of the few strong defensive plays the Ducks have at their disposal. When they are playing this well, it slows down Detroit's offense majorly. Huge plus for the Ducks.

What I'm hating...

Their inability to clear the zone. I talked about this a lot when the Ducks were facing San Jose. They seem to be great at clearing the puck from the front of the net, and yet, they struggle from getting it free from the zone completely. UGH! Fortunately for the Ducks, they are still employing the services of the ever wonderful Scott Niedermayer, who, even when fighting, always seems to gain the upper hand. I don't know what it is about that man...but I'm always at ease when he's on the ice.

Who I'm loving...

The Ryan's. I guess because they always seem to have the big plays, but tonight they were all credited with something huge. Ryan Whitney had a huge sprawling save a-la-Pronger style, and while the guy always seems to shy from the physical, if he wants to use his body to block shots, I'm all for it. Ryan Carter had a huge hit early in the game, and on the same shift did a fabulous job at boxing out at the front of the net for Teemu Selanne to get a few good shots on goal. Bobby Effin Ryan, who seems to be turning the corner finally. He didn't have a great game, but it was far improved from previous showings in this series. He had a big assist tonight and played much more physical than we've seen from him lately. Finally, Ryan Getzlaf...who I always feel can be a deal breaker for the Ducks. It was 4 months into the season that the Ducks finally won a game where Getzlaf didn't have at least 1 point (February 2 against Buffalo). That basically means when Getzlaf isn't contributing...the Ducks are going to have a hard time finding the wins they so desperately need. So Getz...do us all a favor...AND SHOOT THE PUCK MORE! Thanks, all our love...faithful Ducks fans!

Who I'm hating...

Detroit (that never changes).

What must continue...

Jonas Hiller has got to continue to be the man that he is. Always seeming so confident in between the pipes, and I love having him out there. He's still seeing way more than his fair share of shots on goal, but the important part is that he's SEEING them. Great thanks goes to the defense once again for that one. Let's face it though...without a solid goal tender like Hiller, there is no post season to speak of.

What must end...

The Ducks have got to stop taking lame penalties. Andrew Ebbett's retaliation penalty is unacceptable and can potentially cost the Ducks this series. In addition...too many men?! Pathetic! TWICE?!?! ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS! There is NO WAY the Ducks will continue to be successful against Detroit by giving them so many power play opportunities!

Most Importantly...

The Ducks need to do it...ONE MORE TIME!

GO DUCKS!!!

And you played into it...

FIRST! I had SO MUCH FUN with Suz Broughton! She and I had a lot of laughs, great sliders from Ruby's, fun with the fans around us, tons of warm up picture time (although we didn't take ONE picture together - how lame is that?!), and she even twisted my arm into buying 3 more Ducks shirts (at least that's what I'm telling my empty wallet). I can't thank her husband, Larry, enough for being unable to attend. What a good man! Suz is quite the fan, and she's made some suggestions for off season blogs (I'll debate on whether or not I want to share some of the stories however). Even more impressive...she's got her OWN game day shoes (that's a blog for another day that I WILL be sharing)! Thanks again Broughtons...you rock! I can't wait until the next game!

Here's a great shot that Suz took of Mr. Ryan Carter for me...


Alright...onto game 4.2....

I've ignored the eerie similarities that everyone has been referencing regarding this playoff match up between the Ducks and the Red Wings...until now.

Of all the eerie similarities...heading back to Detroit tied 2-2, just as in the 2007 WCF, is the one I was hoping wouldn't be repeated.

I usually go home after the game and re-watch the recording - highlights, goals, penalties, questionable moments during the game - to get a recap and a reassess my emotions from the win/loss. I was unable to do that last night and therefore won't be nearly as opinionated about last night's match up as I'd like to be.

I knew that this game was going to be in Detroit's favor from the get go. Whether anyone will admit it or not, there was going to be a bit of a make up in Detroit's favor after game 3 ended the way it did. Unfortunately, the Ducks obviously felt that this was going to be the case as well...and they played into it. They allowed Detroit to walk all over them and did very little to fight back.

I'm not going to complain about the crowd last night. I always laugh at how the Yankee Detroit fans are so proud of themselves for their presence in an opponents arena. We're talking about a successful original 6 team franchise...they have bandwagon fans everywhere. Don't be so surprised when they are in your building.

Overall, the Ducks were playing the lazy brand of hockey we've seen from them all too often this season. A huge contrast in last night's game, compared to Tuesday's game in particular, was the Ducks' inability to shut down the neutral zone effectively. When it comes down to it, the Ducks have seen two very different opponents here in the post season. San Jose, in my opinion, plays a very similar style to the Ducks. A shorter, chip and retrieve type of game with a physical aspect similar to the way Anaheim plays the puck. Detroit plays a much smoother passing game, with an attempt to control the puck from one end of the ice to the other. If the Ducks are unable to put a stop to these successful offensive transitions...trouble...

Unfortunately for Jonas Hiller, he was bound to have an off night. I don't know that I can blame him completely as it seemed the defense was very off of their game last night as well. In fact, everyone seemed to be chasing Detroit, chasing the puck, chasing their own bodies since they were clearly not moving their feet...and they paid for it. Hiller's soft 5-hole goals were going to catch up to him eventually, and I'm really surprised Detroit has yet to exploit the fact that when they take shots directly in front of the crease, Hiller is quite soft. It was nice to see JS Giguere get some time in net, but I'll be honest, I hope that we see Hiller in net on Sunday.

There has been a lot of talk about the Ducks being insanely out shot over the past 10 post season games. Quality over quantity in my opinion. The Ducks may not be talking as many shots as their opponent, but I'd be interested in a stat showing timed puck possession. I would bet that those numbers are probably more reflective of why the Ducks have had success. They may not be taking as many shots as their opponents, but they're making them count. In the end, the scoreboard is all that matters anyway.

This is killing me, but I really hope that I don't have to change his name from Bobby Effin Ryan to Effin Bobby Ryan (I usually save that for when Ryan Getzlaf does things to piss me off). I'm still sticking to my "he's hurt" assumption, but it's definitely clear that something is bothering him. I don't think it's simply the pressure of the playoffs, I think it's the pressure from EVERYWHERE ELSE that is potentially getting to him. I think in particular it's the pressure from the 2 or 3 guys in Red Wings jerseys who immediately attach themselves to him once he touches the puck. I still believe he'll find a way to break through. Maybe he shouldn't have been so damn amazing during the regular season causing a mini post season slump to make him stand out like a sore Thronton thumb. Hang in there fans...he's still the Effin we all know and love.

Also, what happened to Getzlaf last night? He disappeared during the third (much like Effin did in game 5 against San Jose and hasn't been the same since) and I noticed immediately, but haven't seen anything other than "he's sick". I'm not buying it. Anyone have another thought?

Finally, I'd just like to mention how much I loved Francois Beauchemin's fight last night. Again, I'm not a fan of the fighting, but that felt right last night. It was a great fight...and yet again someone was surprised to find out Beauchaboy is a lefty! LOVE IT!

In the end, I hope that last night's game didn't put doubt into the team's head. They're going to need to be the better team on Sunday. They need to do it for their moms...for Ryan Getzlaf's 24th birthday...and for the pure reason that this is the post season, there is no room for error.

GO DUCKS!!!

Saved by the whistle!

Whew! That was a close one last night. Probably should have been closer than it was...but the fact of the matter is that the Ducks got the "W".

At this point, I don't think it matters how this series turns out, the Red Wings and their fans aren't going to be happy. They'll be looking at what they consider to be a questionable hit in game 1 and now a goal that shouldn't have been called off and continue to call the Ducks "lucky". When it comes down to it, the Ducks got a call in their favor for a change. Plain and simple. Was it pay back for a kicked in goal during game 2? Was it to rectify an elbow to the already injured James Wisniewski? It doesn't matter. What everyone needs to remember is that questionable calls are going to happen in every game. Sure, it's easier to be okay with a questionable call when it goes in your teams favor, and I'm not trying to excuse it. Every team has suffered a fate from the whistle, and this time it was a positive for the Ducks.

"He didn't make a mistake. In hindsight, if he had a slow-motion camera to review it, he may not have (blown the whistle). He did what all officials are instructed to do. Blow the whistle when they don't see the puck. And he didn't see the puck." - E.J. McGuire, series manager and spokesman for officials. Anaheim Ducks Official Web Site

We all know humans are going to make mistakes. When it comes down to it, referee Brad Watson was simply doing his job. Referees aren't always good at their job, but it's part of the job description to be hated by fans across the league. He's currently getting top billing as employee of the month from me!

Way more important than screwing over the Red Wings (which I love more than you can imagine) is the status of James Wisniewski. I didn't see the play as it happened, but did notice immediately that he was hurt after the elbow to his face. While watching the replay of the game at home, it was obvious that he took a shot to the chest and was in considerable pain from that. To add further injury to injury, he then received an elbow to the face from Tomas Holmstrom. Scott Niedermayer was the only man sent to the box on that play for a hooking call, and Detroit scored on the following PP opportunity. It's okay though, the Ducks got that call back when the whistle sounded in their favor at the end of the game. Reports from the Anaheim Ducks Official Web Site is that Wisniewski has suffered a lung contusion and was kept over night for monitoring. He is apparently doing well however, and I know I'm just one of thousands of fans who hopes he is doing well. I'm sure it's too much to ask that we see him tomorrow night, as I have no idea how long this type of injury may last, but hopefully sooner than later. He's become a HUGE reason the Ducks have had their recent success, and I'm a big fan of the Wiz. Here's hoping for a speedy recovery.

Another daunting message from last night was revealed in MANY tweets I received via Twitter regarding Effin. Those messages were all the same..."Where's Bobby Effin Ryan?". Even the constantly angry guy sitting behind me (he complained about EVERYTHING) couldn't help but voice his frustrations every time the kid couldn't maintain control of the puck. Is it possible Ducks fans were spoiled by his regular season brilliance? Is he folding under the pressure? Is he too good to be true? I say, "nah!" to all of those things. It's quite possible that he's just hit a dry spell. It's also very possible that Detroit knows better than to give Effin an ounce of breathing room, knowing very well what he is capable of. I say, give the kid some time. Get off his back for a bit and let him be a rookie. This is his first time in the post season and I'm sure the nerves are there and the pressure is definitely there...give him a day or so off of the criticism block and let him play his game. The goals and the points will come.


On that same note, it's a great thing the Ducks have players like Ryan Getzlaf to rely on. He didn't have a big night last night on the scoreboard, but I was watching him closely- and wow, is he underrated. It's so much of the little things that Getzlaf brings to the game that are remarkable. The way he handles the puck is unbelievable in it's own right, but how he controls a play, and moves around the ice is fascinating to watch. In addition, he's very smart with the puck up against the boards. I watched that closely last night and to see the way he uses not only his stick, but his feet, his legs, and his body to make space for puck control...thats a talent that can't be taught- it's natural. I give Getzlaf a lot of crap from time to time, and I'm realizing just now that it's because I'm really understanding why Brian Burke constantly remarked that he can "be as good as he wants to be". It's amazing at how good he is when it appears he isn't even trying...and when he is trying, the guy is quite possibly unstoppable.

Another highlight of the night was the beautiful little backhander by Teemu Selanne to put the Ducks on the board. Most impressive on that play was the great feed from Ryan Carter. I'm not one to pat myself on the back...but I will say this:

I've been calling for the Ebbett-Carter-Selanne line for months! MONTHS!!! I'm glad to see that it's paying off for the Ducks. Maybe more importantly, I'm glad to see the inspiration for Carter to stay in the lineup means he's got 4 points in his last 5 games. The Ducks need scoring from anyone - and with Detroit working so hard to keep the Ryan-Getzlaf-Perry line down, second line scoring is huge. So is converting on breakaways...maybe Selanne should have a little sit down with Drew Miller and give him a few tips on how to be successful going one-on-one. Couldn't hurt.

One more thing...the Honda Center was insanely loud last night. My friends and I were having difficulty talking to each other from time to time. I don't know if it was the combination of too many Red Wings fans in the building, or just the fact that these playoff games bring out the emotions in everyone, but it was great to hear all of the fans doing their part. We're going to need to bring this continued support as I feel the refs are going to be making up for the late "no goal" in game 4's match up.

It's great to be up 2-1 in this series, but this thing is FAR from over!

See you there tomorrow night, it'll be a doosie!

GO DUCKS!!!

All day hockey event?! I'LL TAKE IT!

THANK YOU TODD MARCHANT!

I don't know that this blog post requires more than that.

What a long exhausting game for players and fans. I, for one, love knowing that after 100 minutes of hockey, Detroit fans left dejected.

This game didn't need to go into overtime. I think the Ducks know that. The painfully lame slashing penalty by the reckless Ryan Getzlaf and Detroit is on an early power play. Then, a ridiculous call by the "Situation Room"...

Hockey Operations used video review to determine if Detroit player Stuart used a distinct kicking motion (the fact that the puck bounced off Anaheim defenseman Wisniewski before going in the net is not a factor - Rule 49.2 states "A kicked puck that deflects off the body of any player of either team shall be ruled no goal"). The decision of Hockey Ops was that Stuart did not use a distinct kicking motion - Good goal. NHL.com

I have to question that one. I would have voted kicking. Doesn't matter now...all is said and done.

Jonas Hiller was looking rusty in the early moments of the game (I call them early when you play 5+ periods of hockey). More of those soft 5 hole goals and lofty short side opportunities are goals that Hiller can't afford to give up. He definitely found a way to shine through the final 2 periods of overtime as that klepto-glove of his was as lethal as ever. Saving 59 of the 62 shots he faced, I'm beginning to wonder if he knows exactly what's on the line in these playoff games. He always seems so calm and put together...I really wonder if he realizes that this is more than just a "really long game". Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining one bit.

In the end, the important factor was, as always, scoring. Scoring from the typical guys, Ryan Getzlaf and Chris Pronger, as well as the not so common guys, Ryan Carter and Todd Marchant. I really think the not so common guys were the deciding factor in the game. Seeing Carter step up and get a big goal off of a beautiful end board bank by Scott Niedermayer. Josh Green, who for all purposes came out of nowhere (both on the roster and in the game), was just inches from winning the game. Mike Brown, who yet again, had a huge night drawing 2 penalties and showed no signs of effect from his ejection on Friday. Drew Miller and his two break away opportunities and of course, Marchants game winner. It's these guys, the ones who's names aren't mentioned in the headlines...the guys who don't score 60+ points in a season...who are not likely to be the focus of the opponents checking line...THESE GUYS, they're going to win you tight games after 40 minutes of overtime of the playoffs.

More on the Ryan's for just a moment. It really seemed to me that they all played a part in today's game. Some good, some bad. Unfortunately, the bad went to both Ryan Whitney and Bobby Ryan. I still think that there might be something going on with Effin that we as fans aren't aware of, and I think it's put a hindrance on his intensity. He seems a jump behind everyone and it caused Randy Carlyle to move him to the second line and replace him with Carter. I can't say that I like that as a permanent position as I think Carter is a better option on the Selanne line as is Ryan for the Getzlaf-Perry line. But, sometimes the team needs a different look and a spark. It was a good call by Carlyle. In addition, both Getzlaf and Carter were big factors in the game as the both found the net to keep the Ducks in the game. Ryan Whitney on the other hand looks a bit scrambled from time to time. I'd like to see him get more aggressive.

In terms of Scott Niedermayer...I'd like to know what happened to him. I don't think that this was what I'd call a typical Scotty game. He was out of position, out skated and taking sloppy (yes, lame) penalties. I'd like to think that this was just a one time thing, but I felt like he wasn't himself during the first game of this series either. But it happens from time to time...shake it off Scotty!

Overall, the Ducks showed a lot of heart on the ice. They somehow found the energy that Marchant referenced, moments before scoring the game winner, to keep going strong over 100 minutes of hockey. They're going to be tired on Tuesday, but the good news is that Detroit will be tired too. One of the positives from the game is this...they really made Detroit look vulnerable from time to time...and they're coming home 1-1.

GO DUCKS!!!

It's not how you play the game...

It's whether you WIN OR LOSE!!!

Remember when you were five and your parents would tell you that it doesn't matter if you win or lose, it's all how you play the game? That doesn't apply when you're making 5 million a year and you're playing for a professional hockey team in the NHL trying to win a Stanley Cup. That motto is irrelevant.

I don't care how you play, I don't care if you close you're eyes for the entire game...in the end, I care if you WIN OR LOSE. Tonight, you lost.

That's really all the post season comes down to.

Remember game 5 against Detroit in 2007? The Ducks, for all purposes, played AWFUL. They were terrible. They did NOT deserve to win that game...but a late goal by Scott Niedermayer with less than a minute to go sends the Ducks into overtime. Teemu Selanne roofs the OT winner...if you ask me...the Ducks win the cup with that one victory. That's right...a VICTORY. That's what the post season is all about. It doesn't matter that for 59 minutes the Ducks played like crap, what matters is that they found a way to win and they DID. It's all about the scoreboard at the end of 60+ minutes...not who had more SOG, not who made fancier passes, bigger hits, more penalties...it's all about the scoreboard. Moral victories and motivational moments mean NOTHING in the post season. There is no time to take that and grow on it...you have to play in the now and win this game...no matter how ugly it looks getting there.

Last night, the Ducks had the opportunity to turn that in their favor, and they failed. Because when it comes down to it, the scoreboard has the final say, the final word. The Ducks were on the wrong end of that word.

I had been thinking about this idea for the last few weeks. For all purposes, the Ducks have been the team who have found ways to get the win. When they managed to tie the game thanks to Ryan Carter and Corey Perry, I was thrilled. To see the way the game had been going up to that point, there was no way the Ducks deserved to win the game. But like I said...

It's not how you play the game...it's whether you WIN OR LOSE.

Plain and simple...the Ducks lost. It wont matter what they did well, or what they did poorly. They lost. It wont matter that the first two periods they played like crap, it wont matter that they turned it on in the third, and it doesn't matter that they had chances in the OT session. They lost.

We ALL know that these Ducks are better than what they showed the hockey world last night. In the same sense, we ALL know that the Sharks are just as good as they were last night, maybe better. But here's the kicker. This is all at square one again. That's right. We've heard it time and again from Randy Carlyle...10 minutes, then it's time to move on. MOVE ON. There is still a game 6 and even better it's in front of the Ducks' home crowd. Going back to San Jose is NOT an option!

The only thing I can even make positive about last night was one Jonas Hiller. There is NO WAY the Ducks would be where they are in this series without his services. I've seen a lot of people calling him lucky lately. That's crap. I hate that word, 'lucky'. To me, there is nothing about hockey that is lucky. This is a game of inches. This is a game of posts, bounces, wide shots, deflections and fanned passes. Nothing about any of that is 'luck'. Someone who faces 48 SOG is not lucky to see only 3 get past...he's good. He's damn good. He shouldn't be the only factor in a Ducks victory/loss and it was the only saving factor for the Ducks last night. They provided very little support on the defensive end, and for all purposes did nothing to help on the offensive end. Here's why...

This Ducks team has a tendency to get lazy and when they do, they STOP MOVING THEIR FEET! There is no way you can get to lose pucks, play physical hockey and move the puck well when you're NOT MOVING YOUR FEET! MOVE YOUR FEET! We saw what that did for the Ducks on Thursday...THEY saw what it did for their team on Thursday...WHY WOULD THEY STOP DOING THAT NOW?! Oh right, they got comfortable. That's crap! There is no time to be relaxed when you're playing against the best team in the league. I don't care if you're up in this series, if you can't close this one out...there is no point because you'll be done, you're gone!

As it is, I have a very hard time watching playoff hockey. Don't get me wrong, I love it...but I am always overly tense/anxious/nervous/panicked/sweating/freaking/shouting/stressing...and games like the one the Ducks played last night...they make all of those things a million times worse.

I am VERY aware that these Sharks are lethal. I am VERY aware that there is a chance they will come back in this series and make the Ducks pay for lazy play, soft penalties and ridiculously lame efforts. I hope everyone else is aware of this as well.

More importantly, there are 20+ guys on that Ducks roster who should be DAMN aware of this fact.

You don't have the time or space to play cute/lazy hockey. You worked your ass off for this post season, now go out there and remind the fans that you actually give a damn about doing something with it.

Yea, I'm pissed.

BUT I WILL ALWAYS SAY...

GO DUCKS!!!

I can see the reflection of a teal jersey on your face. Oh?! You're choking? YIKES!

WOW!

I'm speechless. Not just because I have no voice, but because I have missed this team! This team is gooooooooooood. These Ducks are gooooooooooood.

THESE DUCKS ARE DAMN GOOD!

This is the first time in a really REALLY long time that I've left the Honda Center...IMPRESSED! I was blown away by what I saw from these guys last night.

I honestly feel that this has been one of the best showings we've seen since...wow, dare I say...the 2007 finals?!

First off, the little things. I have a Ryan Carter jersey. Yea, I'll admit it...he's not necessarily my favorite player on the team...but he's my favorite. I have a jersey "routine", which is not important, but yesterday, I decided I was going to sport Carter. Good call SK! I'll be honest, I wasn't happy to see Petteri Nokelainen a healthy scratch, but on the other end, I was very happy to see Carter on the ice and playing his heart out. I just wanted to throw that out there.

THE DUCKS DEFENSE IS HOT!

Last night, there was at least one key/ HUGE play by each guy on the defensive core. Here's a great way to open this thought...

"That (Scott) Niedermayer makes it look easy," Roenick said. "He skates so well, it looks like he's not even trying. And he never gets tired." Roenick finally grinned. "He's a great player. I hate him." OC Register

Beautifully said Mr. Roenick. Scott Niedermayer had countless poke checks and one skate block shot in particular that was just typical Scotty, and I don't think it's necessary to say more about the future Hall of Famer than that. Ryan Whitney...this was probably the best game I've seen from him since the Ducks acquired him in the trade for Chris Kunitz. James Wisniewski who had numerous blocked shots last night, and one in particular with about 7 minutes to play in the third period allowing the Ducks to hold on tight to their 2-0 lead. Chris Pronger looked alive tonight for the first time this series, and of course, Francois Beauchemin, who I consider to be the "poor mans Scotty", doesn't look like he has missed a game this season.

I find it so ironic that for a whole SEASON I've been complaining and wondering where the defense was! Turns out, not only has it been found, but it's better than ever. And of course, how can you forget the Shark Killer himself, Jonas Hiller. This guy is just getting better! Standing tall and never breaking an emotional sweat, Hiller has instantly become a major factor for the Ducks. In a season where goaltending has been shaky from time to time, Hiller is showing the organization that there is plenty of heart and skill in his game. Posting two shutouts in his first 4 NHL playoff match ups, he's currently riding high in the playoffs with a .959 SV% and carrying so much of the weight on his shoulders as the Ducks muscle through the first round of this post season.

Even though the Ducks played a DOMINATING game (to put it mildly) they were still out shot by the Sharks. It really didn't feel that way. Other than their two power play opportunities, I never felt that the Sharks were threatening the Ducks all night. I can't believe I'm actually saying that.

To say I called this game...well, I called this game.

The first line was clearly unstoppable. Bobby Effin Ryan. BOBBY EFFIN RYAN! How UNBELIEVABLE is this guy?!?! BOBBY EFFIN RYAN! He's so smart and he's got such great hands and his shots are spot on! I was so worried that after the Ducks had all of that momentum and that HUGE delay while the glass was getting fixed, that they weren't going to be able to get that momentum back. Then, Bobby Effin Ryan showed up and there was no question that the Ducks were going to continue to dominate this game.

THE DUCKS DOMINATED THIS GAME.

It might be safe to say...there is no other line in the NHL right now that is as good as Bobby Effin Ryan, Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. I don't think there is a question in my mind about that.

Penalties. There were so few...it must have been some sort of Anaheim record! I don't care if the Ducks never go on the PP, but to ensure that the Sharks never go on the PP, I'll take that any day! In fact, San Jose knows that a disciplined Ducks team will be their downfall. For a team who was so reliant on their Power Play during the regular season, it has shown that having an ALL AROUND game is so important to success. If the Ducks can play this same game, dicsiplined hockey, they are going to do well in future games. In fact, here is a very short conversation UJ and I had last night:

UJ: It's like there are twice as many Ducks out there tonight than there are Sharks.

SK: It's called hitting and getting to the loose puck.

How such a small act of physical play, where you move your feet, can completely re-write a season for just one team. Discipline and physical play...that makes this Anaheim team LETHAL!

San Jose has a slim chance to turn this series around...but don't get too over confident Ducks fans, it's still possible. I won't be calling this series over, until it's actually over. 91% of teams that take a 3-1 lead win the series...until the Ducks have won at 100%...I won't be able to relax. IF IF IF I get the opportunity to gloat about a series victory over San Jose, I'll quickly take another deep breath in preparation for Detroit.

I still can't believe that the Ducks have a 3-1 lead in this series...but you bet your ass...I've got NO complaints about 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.

Ducks in a Row...STAY TUNED!!!!

There is so much going on right now...and I'd love to just cover EVERYTHING such as Monday's game (which by the way, was a huge victory), the trade rumors and the trade happenings, what I'm doing for lunch today, what I'm doing TONIGHT...so much stuff!!!

Anyway, with all of that being said. Here's what I can do right now.

Monday, HUGE. WONDERFUL to say the least. Jonas Hiller was fabulous, although I'd love to see him giving up less rebounds. Brendan Morrison on the healthy scratch list is exactly where I'd like to see that guy as often as possible. Bobby Ryan limping to the locker room is the exact OPPOSITE of what I'd like to see from him. Ryan Getzlaf making too many passes is something I'm becoming to accustomed too...and I don't like that either.

I'm going to miss Sammy Pahlsson while he's out with this crazy viral "stuff". Although, I must admit...maybe this will give him a boost. I don't feel like we've been seeing the same Sammy we all know and love. In addition, I wont complain with allowing Ryan Carter to step in there for a bit. I still don't think the Ducks are using Carter properly.

Okay...so with that mini Monday night review...lets move on.

Lunch. We're having a little plastic baby Jack Christopher pot luck. It's a joke, that's not really funny actually. Only 2 people will get it.

Moving right along...
Trade stuff. I have no opinion on this new Sheldon Brokeback or whatever his name is. He's been a healthy scratch for over a month. He's with the team now, hopefully we'll see what he's made of, cause I'd really rather give him a new nickname. In addition, I think if the Ducks keep up this winning business...other trade rumors might just dissipate. I'm crossing my fingers for that, because my heart doesn't want to part with either Scott Niedermayer OR Chris Pronger, who's names I see regularly in rumor-ville.

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO...now it's NEWS time!

There are BIG...no HUGE things that are going to be happening in the near future. I can't say too much at this time because it's just not ready, but trust me, it's big. With that being said...I won't let you forget and when it happens, you'll all know it! Let's just say, I'm excited!

IN ADDITION...tonight I'll be LIVE BLOGGING on a site called COVERITLIVE.COM. Here is the link for tonight's game coverage. VERY EXCITING!



Now it's time for some...
DUCKS IN A ROW!!!

Lets go BIG tonight...

Goals by Getzlaf, Ryan, Selanne, Carter AND Scotty Niedermayer. BIG.

Hiller tonight...again fine by me. He's going to give up two...but those Ducks are going to be on fire! I can feel it!!!!

Can you feel the excitement in the air people? I sure as hell can!!!

GO DUCKS!!!

Shake up and Wake up!

After an overwhelmingly disappointing loss to a Crosby-less Pittsburgh on Friday night, the Ducks were in desperate need of a win in Minnesota. So desperate that there was a major change to the offensive line-up. I was unable to watch the game live so I checked in often on my phone. I could tell from the way the minuets were dispersed between players that there had to be a shake up in the lines...I couldn't have been more correct. I watched when I got home...
Here's a look:

Kunitz - Getzlaf - Morrison. These guys played well together, but I think it was obvious on the final goal of the night just what Ryan Getzlaf & Corey Perry can do on a line together. Those final seconds of the game may have been the only quality time those two spent together and look what happened. Getzlaf sends a beautiful pass to a wide open Perry in front of a wide open net. However, I don't want to take away from the opportunities that the K-G-M line had. They looked solid, and I think by removing Perry from Getzlaf it allowed Chris Kunitz to become more puck minded than he has been so far this season. Kunitz playing along side Getzlaf and Perry means he's required to make space and allow the other two to make plays, while having Brendan Morrison on the line, Kunitz becomes a shooter again. I like Kunitz in that role...I'm sure it wont be a surprise to say that I don't care for Morrison in the play makers role, but hey...the power that is Getzlaf somewhat counteracts that. Anyway, I'm assuming this was the #1 line of the night.

Miller - Pahlsson - Perry. I think the goal here was to get the scoring spanned out amongst many lines. I can't say that I think this line brought much action or offensive power. For the most part, they went unnoticed.

Moen - Carter - Niedermayer. I think this was my favorite line of the night. Ironically, this line was something Ducks fans saw at the beginning of last season when Ryan Carter filled in for Sammy Pahlsson because he was recovering from surgery. They were very physical and had alot of scoring opportunities. Not only that, but I'll never argue Carter getting more minutes.

Bodie - Ebbett - Ryan. Yea...this line to me was basically Andrew Ebbett and Bobby Ryan. I still haven't seen much from Troy Bodie (I had to look up his first name!). But much like Getzlaf cancels out the Morrison effect, I think the same can be said about the Ryan - Bodie effect.

One thing I noticed about this line-up was that everyone seemed to be playing very similar minutes. In terms of forwards, Bodie was the low end of the scale with 11:40, while Pahlsson maxed out at 17:51 (with some added PK time). Spreading the offense seemed to work well. Much of this "spread" comes from having a key player or scorer on every line.

So the overall positive of this game? The Ducks played one of the better games fans have seen in weeks. They were sharp, quick (in fact, I'm just remembering RIGHT NOW that they just played game 2 of a back-to-back) and they played a skilled game of hockey. They made crisp passes and they played physical. They moved their feet and controlled the puck for much of the game. Aside from a few penalties, they were disciplined and focused. I was impressed for the first time in a while.

Jonas Hiller was fabulous...again! At this point, I'm going to expect that he plays on Tuesday against the Rangers and Jiggy is in net against the Islanders. I know normally things would be the other way around...but the smart move here is to put the man who is playing well in net against the Rangers and right now, that guy is Hiller. No question.

So, my predictions. After making a whooping 4 predictions I've learned something...go with the gut instinct. For example, the other day I was going to make a prediction that we were going to hear good news about Selanne...that day we find out he's skating again. No biggie right? Tonight, my original prediction was 2 goals by Ryan a goal from Perry and a shutout by Hiller. I tried to spread it around a bit for kicks and well...from now on...I go with the instinct! But...Hiller did let one by tonight, it just didn't count!

GO DUCKS! I like the shake up...it was a fantastic wake up!

Where nothing means nothing

Updated --

I...I don't even know what to say anymore.

I don't know where to take this.

When I'm feeling this loss of words, I usually turn to Ramon. He's my hockey guru. A Ducks fan from day one, he always has an answer for me (he always has an answer for EVERYTHING...but that's just Ramon). Last night after the game I asked him what was going on.
Silence. Nothing. Finally, his only thought..."They didn't play bad."

So what's the problem? I don't know either. It's not a lack of offense, teams aren't upset with getting 3 goals a night. However, giving up 4 is not going to help either.

The Ducks have played 10 games this season with a final score of 3-4. Their record in those games? 3-5-2 (8 points). Reverse that fortune 7-3 (14 points). At this point in the season where everything is SO close, 6 points is 6 points. (Click for a larger view).

What does this mean? Do the Ducks need to make a trade? Change the lines? Change the coaching staff? Something.

I just don't know what that something is.

All in all, I have no voice today, and nothing to show for it.

I'm just bummed.

I was excited to see that my first two predictions were correct...for the most part. Ryan Getzlaf gets his overdue goal (no assist from Corey Perry though) and thanks to a beautiful move by Getzy, Perry got his goal as well. As for the rest? Well, both Bobby Ryan and Andrew Ebbett had their opportunities and I believe Ryan Carter had the first SOG for the Ducks. Jiggy? He let 3+1 get by. I think the 4th goal was high sticking, but what can you do about it now?

I hope this road trip goes better for the Ducks. Tomorrow night they visit the equally frustrated Pittsburgh Penguins for a showdown between #1 and #2. I've already made my prediction on that, but you'll have to wait for tomorrow's edition of Ducks in a Row.

The positive for today?
I love the Ducks, through the good and the bad...I have been lucky enough to experience the ULTIMATE and I KNOW that things could be worse. I'm grateful that while they aren't winning, there are still nights when they go out and play exciting hockey. It's bound to pay off.

GO DUCKS! I'm always a fan.

AND because I love Bobby Ryan...AND because I'd love to see more of this...And because I think these goals never get old...
Top 10 goals of the week

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!

One More Time! (and then again in like a month or so)

Well, it wasn't fantastic, but it was more than enough.

The Ducks were able to focus and play a solid game for about 60 minuets. All very important right now seeing that the season is officially 1/2 way over (::sigh::).

Beating the Kings. The Ducks are 3-1 against the cross town rivals this season. Who doesn't love beating the Kings? For some reason watching Ducks/Kings games I’m always extra tense. Like it matters that much. I guess for me, all that matters is that the co-workers (who didn’t even know that the Kings played last night) can’t make a comment, and that Ken (who decided to join us during the 3rd period just in time for 2 Ducks goals) has no room for bragging. Ken is a big hockey fan/player/overall nice guy. Too bad he’s confused and doesn’t know how to pick a good team. Last night he compared his personal to play to that of Alexander Ovechkin…I corrected him by saying that the comparison is only relevant when Ovechkin is on the bench (admittedly, I've never seen Ken play...but I have seen Ovechkin play and well...). Ken laughed, which is just another case to his fantastic-ness. Good guy, just a fan of the wrong team.

Hello Power Play scoring. Yes, it was missing and has been FOUND! Bobby Ryan and Samuel Pahlsson's goals were exactly what the Ducks needed last night. I seriously can’t get enough of Bobby Ryan right now. He’s really stepping it up and showing why he was drafted number 2. On the flip side (I feel like it would be necessary to insert a rap here or something), the Ducks seem to be having issues getting even strength goals. 8 of the Ducks’ last 13 goals (dating back to the visit to St. Louis) have come on the Power Play. So glad that it’s clicking boys. Just imagine the damage if even strength was clicking TOO (I’d rather SEE than IMAGINE though).

Other than the fact that the game was considerably uneventful, the Ducks played well enough to do what was necessary, get 2 points.

--
Here’s a kicker. I was going to post something about this TODAY. I have been having this feeling in my bones that there was going to be a Ducks trade soon. It was like having a cold weather warning in my joints or something. Anyway, it’s happened. The Ducks have traded Brad May to Toronto (of all places right?). This move may be nice for May-day since he’s from Toronto. Anyway, with the way the younger core group of guys have been playing lately, I can’t say I’m surprised. I don’t know if this is because of his age or because his contract is up at the end of the season, but this just helps trim the roster a bit more. I can’t argue, if it means not having to decide between May and Ryan Carter on the 4th line…no complaints here. No doubting Brad May was a huge part of the Ducks Stanley Cup run and he’ll be missed. Good luck May-day.

Finally, Corey Perry should keep in mind that biting only gets you a 2 game suspension.

GO DUCKS!

Good news and Bad news...

So the good news...
Teemu Selanne doesn't need surgery
Bad news...
He's going to be out for 4-6 weeks anyway. No surgery and he's still going to be out 4-6 weeks? Does that make sense? Corey Perry was out for 6 weeks and he HAD surgery. So was Ryan Carter during his wrist injury...he also HAD surgery. So there must be something they aren't telling the public.

Of course now the question turn to the crazy line changes that are bound to take place. One thing that has been talked about for sure is that Bobby Ryan is likely to fill the void on the first Power Play unit. As far as the 5 on 5 lineups, there is no definite set up and of course, we'll probably see crazy combinations over the course of the next few games. A few of the questions are going to be:
Where will Andrew Ebbett play?
Will Brad May continue to be the healthy scratch for the 4th line?
What will happen with Bobby Ryan and Ryan Carter?

My guess is that the first and checking lines will stay as is. Kunitz-Getzlaf-Perry and Moen-Pahlsson-Niedermayer. I can't even begin to imagine what will happen to the 2nd line and the energy line.

Now some great fantastic news!!
Ducks fans have really pulled it out! I'm very happy and incredibly impressed by the turn around in voting!
Here's an update:
Ryan Getzlaf is LESS THAN 3,000 votes away from FIRST IN THE WEST!
Scott Niedermayer is in SECOND behind Lidstrom about 55,000 votes and Chris Pronger is just behind Scotty in THIRD!
JS Giguere is still in second, but has overcome a HUGE deficit to the injured Luongo and is only 4,500 votes behind first!

If we as Ducks fans can keep this up...we could potentially have 3 or 4 Ducks in the starting line up at the All Star game. WHAT A FANTASTIC WAY TO REMIND THE NHL THAT HOCKEY IS GOING STRONG IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA!!!! KEEP IT UP!

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?

Not bad, just not good enough

I'm not upset.

I'm disappointed in the outcome, but I can't complain about the game.

I think with all that was dealt to the Ducks, what with a back to back and having to play admittedly the best team in the NHL on the second night, they showed up. They were tired and sluggish from time to time, but for the most part they held their own.

The Sharks did their homework and completely shut down Ryan Getzlaf. He, most of all, looked very tired out there. I wouldn't say that guy is quick on a good night, and last night it showed in him even more. However, that being said...the first line had it's opportunities to get the puck in the net. The bounces were just all wrong. Frustration was evident for everyone as Chris Pronger got smashed, somewhat questionably if you ask me, and a huge brawl ensued. Not long after, Corey Perry was assaulted in front of the net by Rob Blake, only to have multiple players, Teemu Selanne and Scott Niedermayer included, dog pile, shove and push. For me, when I see the relatively calm and mild mannered Scotty get involved you know there must be a reason for it. I would love to see Scotty fight.

I'm sure you know I was happy to see the change to the 2nd line during the 2nd and 3rd periods. It seemed as though the energy and speed changed immediately once Bobby Ryan and Ryan Carter were put with Selanne. Their chances seemed more evident. I hope it stays that way. Of course the likelihood of that happening would have been better sealed if they were able to put some points on the board. But I'll take what I can get for the time being.

Jonas Hiller played well. Not great, but well. I think the two goals he let slip by were saves he should have made. Especially the first one. He did have some great stops though and did more than enough to give the team a "chance to win". One thing I don't like about Hiller is that he so easily shows his colors. I'm glad that the guy is upset when he lets the puck get by, but I wish he would hide that frustration a bit more. Don't let the other guys see you sweat, ya know? On the other end of the ice Evgeni Nabokov played really well and got very lucky TOO many times. UGH!

Overall, the effort was there, the puck didn't bounce in the Ducks' direction (it did bounce everywhere else though) and the Sharks may just be too hot for their own damn good right now.

I don't want to say the Ducks should have won, but they COULD have and I think that's a positive thing right now.

Time to move forward.

FYI:
MISSING: Corey Perry...1 point in the last 6 games.
REWARD IF FOUND: A potential win. Of the Ducks' 14 losses (3 in OT) Perry has been held scoreless for 9 of those games. Essentially, the Ducks have a 65% chance of losing if he doesn't score. On the other hand, 12 of the Ducks' 16 wins come when Perry DOES tally a point. 75% of the time the Ducks win when he does score. The numbers are in the Ducks favor when Perry gets at least 1 point.

On a similar note, 8 of the Ducks losses came when Ryan Getzlaf didn't score a point. (Strong consideration should be put forth to the first 5 games of the season however. Also, Getzlaf has scored at least 1 point in EVERY Ducks win! Therefore, Getzy doesn't get a point= Ducks don't win.)

GO DUCKS!!!

OH...and I'm looking for a guy with qualities like the boyfriend described here...only, in the form of a Ducks fan and someone with two seats!

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...?

Energy Lost

The Ducks disappointed me last night (yea, like I'm the only one). I don't know what happened to them in the final period there, but it was ugly. Perhaps the road trip was beginning to show it's ugly head. No matter what, it was a loss that they shouldn't have had.
It's been a long day today and I don't really have the energy to get into it honestly, but I'll try.

Again Jonas Hiller was a savior for the Ducks. Giving up too many SOG, they have really relied on his presence in net. He has been outstanding and with how shaky JS Giguere has been lately, I wouldn't be surprised to see him in the game more often from here on out. Hiller did have this to say...

"We played pretty well for a game on the road, we had the lead until about five minutes from the end, what else do you want?" -Jonas Hiller, LA TIMES

He seriously doesn't know the answer to that question? SERIOUSLY?!

As much as the defense has been lacking, it's time to look at the offense. Again, the Ducks are dealing with a 2nd line that is lacking in production. I wont continue to bash Mr. Morrison here (my friends think that I should jinx him by making him my new favorite player, but I just can't bring myself to do it...not even on opposite day). Anyway, I'm now putting forth my vote to bring back Ryan Carter (who has been out of the line up for SEVERAL games lately) his last game played was the not televised Ducks @ Stars game 11/22. That's it...bring back Carter (no comments from you Mini). I've actually been biting my tongue on that one for awhile now.

So, well that's where my energy ends on last night's game.

A quick note on the Avery thing...you know that guy is making headlines when people in your office, who you don't talk to, ask you what's going on with it (they only asked because it's very obvious that I'm a Ducks fan and that I would probably know the answer).

I was unable to post this yesterday, but here it is for you now. I did a Q&A with Sam from The Committed Indian. It's like an independent program that was sold at the Blackhawks/Ducks game last night. Here was my part in the program under the heading "Know Thy Enemy". It was really fun for me and really great exposure for Girl with a Puck. Hey! Famous in Chicago! For the rest of the edition, head over to Second City Hockey and send some support for hockey in general.

Tonight, Sara from Girl with a Puck answers our queries about the Ducks.

1. We've been touting the Ducks as Getzlaf, Perry, and everyone else. Tell us why we're wrong about that.

Interesting. Maybe I’m not removed enough to feel that way about the team. True, those guys are amazing and I don't think the Ducks would be as successful without them on the roster (a combined 57 points doesn't hurt), however, they play just a small role. For one, you can't forget Teemu Selanne, who has proved to be a PP goal scoring GOD this season leading the league with 12 (as of 11/30/08 ). What about the Chris Pronger/ Scott Niedermayer defense? Those guys may not score many goals, but they are a huge reason that other teams DON'T score. An even bigger defense mechanism is the Jiggy/Hiller threat. The Ducks clearly have a top 5 goaltender in JS Giguere and Hiller has proven himself to be a powerful presence who only seems to get better with time. Chris Kunitz is a gritty player who does so much for the top two lines with his effectiveness and aggressive play, as are Samuel Pahlsson, Travis Moen and Rob Niedermayer's shutdown abilities. So yea, they might be the scoring leaders of the team, but it doesn't come without some additional offensive presence and defensive power behind them.

2. What do Ducks' fans feel about now-Toronto GM Brian Burke's departure?

I think the overall consensus is...bittersweet. I don't think anyone can argue that what he did for Anaheim was huge. Essentially, he put them on the map by bringing a Stanley Cup to Anaheim. Without him, I don't know that we get Pronger or Niedermayer. In the same sense, I don't think other management would have had the patience to allow Getzlaf, Perry and Ryan to develop the in the minors, something that other teams didn't have the luxury to do. On the other hand, the timing is rough. I don't think anyone is surprised after a summer worth of rumors though. It happens. This could be a make or break for Anaheim with so many UFA 's in the upcoming season. Bittersweet...glad that we had him, sad to see him go, some happy to see him leave, MANY kindly wishing him little success in the future. It's all a toss-up. Look at it this way, he's like the Pronger of GM's...everyone loves to hate him, unless he's on YOUR team.

3. How good can Bobby Ryan be one day?

He has the ability and the skills to be...GREAT. There is a reason he came in 2005 just behind Crosby . He has the size, the power the physical attributes to be just as great or better than Ryan Getzlaf. In fact, I think he's going to hear a lot of the same thing that Brian Burke said about Getzlaf in that he can "be as good as he wants to be". It's up to Bobby Ryan to take the skills and the things he already possess and put them to good use. He can either learn from his veteran teammates and really excel or continue thinking that he already knows everything. He's young and sometimes the lesson that there is more to learn comes too late. I'm hoping for Ryan's sake that's not the case. He worked VERY hard over the summer to get into better shape and so far the fans are happy to see him play (we've been waiting a long time for it). It's make or break time for him right now, I'm thinking...MAKE.

4. Is this the Ducks final run? They don't seem to be getting any younger...

Haha, man...with this group, I think unfortunately yes. The Ducks have A LOT of UFA's after this season and it will be hard to maintain this roster next year (something a lot of Burke hater's wont be missing about him). I think that if the Ducks are able to re-sign a few key players, Sammy Pahlsson for one, there is a good chance that a rebuilding phase could be short. I still think the Ducks will be considered Cup Contenders for many seasons to come because this particular franchise is a desirable place to play (much more so than say LA) and players are still looking to Anaheim as a popular destination (it's like a damn resort city or something huh?). The Ducks might be finding themselves in a rebuilding phase for the next few years.

5. What area will the Ducks be looking to upgrade during the season?

PERSONALLY, I'd like to see a STRONGER 2nd line Center. I think Selanne is being wasted on someone who currently doesn't match up to his style of play. What with a phenomenal 1st line Ryan-Getzlaf-Perry and 2/3 of a good line in Kunitz and Selanne, a second line center is what's missing from have 2 dynamic scoring lines. However the Ducks have always looked to their defensive core as a powerful weapon and no doubt will be looking to improve there now that Beauchemin is out for the season. The nice thing about the Ducks defense is the mix of veteran players and young presence. Huskins is getting the best training possible from Pronger and Niedermayer and Morrison has been a fantastic addition to the team this past off-season. The goaltending duo is stacked. Second line Center, Veteran defenseman as potential upgrades.

6. We've made no secret of how miserable we think attending games in Anaheim are. Here's your chance to defend your fellow Ducks fans and the Honda Center

Bummer. I clearly can't agree here. From what I have noticed, the fan base is growing steadily stronger. Hate the Honda Center? How is that possible? It's small, it gets loud (ahhh, maybe that's why other teams hate the place), and there isn't a bad seat in the building! The fans are growing in number (true, it's slow, but we've got a lot of sports to compete with in So Cal.). One thing I can say is that while Anaheim may not be considered a hockey market, it's definitely not struggling. The place is constantly packed and if it got 1⁄2 as much attention as other sports in the area, it might blossom more than people expect. The Ducks don't get the recognition they deserve, if they did...other teams might be surprised at how great hockey is doing in So Cal!

Best Wishes to you too!

So you know that part where you feel like...well...yea I can't explain it. I know I've already done the thing where I gush about my friends and I'm afraid I have to do it again. To say that they (Ramon and Mini) are amazing is an understatement. To say that I deserve what they have done for me is an overstatement. I don't. They have given me another birthday gift that they had to go to some lengths to get. What the gift is, well that isn't important... BUT IT IS AMAZING, I CAN SAY THAT MUCH! The thought is even more wonderful than the gift and it makes me feel like an awful friend. I don't know how to explain it other than I know I don't deserve the wonderful amazing gift I received. It was really that good! Seriously! Gosh they're great!!!!

Anyway... On to Ducks stuff.

My wonderful friend Ramon, faithful reader I might add, added some fuel to my fire about the whole "broadcasting who you hate". He told me about a license plate he saw the other day. DUCKS H8R. It was framed by a KINGS frame. I don't like the Kings as much as the next Ducks fan and therefore you would never catch me with any reference to them on my car! Not even with a peeing boy! I hate mentioning them here in fact. I just wanted to add to that! It's stupid!

But since we're already on the subject...I love it when the Ducks beat the Kings. The best part is when I go back to work and throw it in co-workers faces that the Ducks won. They are Kings fans...the word "fan" is used very lightly... As I don't think they can name one current player. (I'll have to verify that theory but I'm pretty sure I'm right).

It's always interesting to see them play each other. For one, the games are always battles, which is what you want to see from a rivalry. But they are always intense. Although, not nearly as intense as the playoffs...haha not that Kings fans could possibly remember what it's like to feel that kind of anxiety. (So not like me to be so publicly mean) anyway...good things. I really like that were getting the Bobby Ryan experience. I wish it didn't come at the cost of Beaucheboy (nickname), but it's too difficult to go back in time to change that. Cause hey, if they could...I'm sure the Ducks would change other things in order to get Ryan in a Ducks uniform. No matter the circumstance, he's here with the Ducks and in Bakersfield and here and maybe again in Bakersfield...I was pleasantly surprised to see that at least one of my wish list lines was granted. I think it showed alot of promise too! Again, I'd really like to see the Kunitz, Carter, Selanne line... For MANY reasons but mostly less of Morrison. I wouldn't mind if that guy made me eat my words though. Someone who isn't making me eat my words is Jonas Hiller or Joe-nas Miller as Bret Hedican called him after the game. Um, welcome to the team? Anyway... Hiller was fabulous on Sunday and I think it's great that the Ducks have two great goalies when needed. I loved how happy he was during his rink side interview and I really love how we all learned that he enjoys orange Gatorade. Likewise, Hedican seemed equally thrilled to get a goal. Good for him. It also means that my friends and I will stop referring to him as "new guy" (that's the nickname guys get until they do something worthy of their own nickname...some of which are doosies...Junk, Ole, GQ, Chiclets...maybe I'll save that blog for another day).

Well, I think that's all the useless information I have for today. OH!!!! But I do want to point out that just like previous games, the Ducks who did WIN on Sunday night were OUTSHOT 29-26.

I think it will be exciting to see how tomorrow goes for Ducks and the Caps. I like that the NHL is allowing us to see all the East coast teams one way or another.

Go Ducks!