In the NHL, any team can beat the other. But last night’s win for the Ducks came as huge surprise, even for me. The Chicago Blackhawks arrived to Honda Center coming off an eight game winning streak, including a 7-2 victory against the San Jose Sharks Tuesday night.
Anaheim has been struggling all year, but now it’s starting to appear they’re finally finding an identity. The Blackhawks had only allowed three power play goals against them in their last four games. But their penalty kill wasn’t as effective against the Ducks who capitalized on the power play three times last night.
Suddenly Anaheim aren’t that far away from a play off spot, and now has a great opportunity to catch up even further. That’s because their next three games are against teams within their own division, starting with Phoenix Sunday night.
Goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere is looking better than in a long time. Over the last three games, he’s allowed an average of just 1.30 goals and has saved 96% of the shots he has had to face. Last night’s victory was his first shutout this season.
24-year old right winger Corey Perry continues to build on his point streak. He had one assist last night, and now he’s scored at least one point in the last 17 games. That’s the longest point streak in the NHL this season and tied for the longest point streak in Anaheim Ducks franchise history. Teemu Selanne, who scored two goals last night, had a 17 game point streak with Anaheim in 1999.
Obviously, the Blackhawks didn’t play their best hockey last night. However, it doesn’t change the fact that the Ducks also were very good. Goaltending has been better as of late, but last night the team didn’t give up as many turnovers as they’ve done previously, which was the main reason they won. Chicago didn’t have their best night, but the Ducks won’t care. This was still a major confidence boost for them.
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