This game was an extremely tough loss for the Ducks. After leading the game by two or more goals for 58 minutes during the game, the ducks had a crucial breakdown allowing the Habs to make 2 goals in teh final two minutes of play to force an extra 5 minutes.
Something I’ve seen over and over with the ducks is a strong start and lack of movement during the final two frames.
The make it or break it point came in the shootout in what seemed to be like a fantastic save by Jonas Hiller. After making the shootout save Hiller went to stand up at which point the puck trickled behind him and over the line. After re-watching this a couple of times, a sad and true fact came to light. Hiller stood up before the Referee called the play dead.
You cant put all the blame on Jonas for the loss, but i’m sure hes feeling pretty bad about that save. Corey Perry got a bit emotional towards the end of the game with some slashes and facewashes after getting struck by a elbow, which i’m sure didn’t help the overall situation.
All in All, this final home stretch is really the last solid chance the ducks have at running for a playoff spot. In such a tight Western Conference, loosing at home is not an option! With the addition of Ward and Visnovsky in the play, if the chemistry starts to kick in i’m confident in the Ducks ability to secure a playoff birth.
Till next time hockey fans!!
