Alright, alright. To end an eight-game losing streak, how about that? Last night (Dec. 2), the Anaheim Ducks came to play and gave it their all against a much more talented and deeper Colorado Avalanche team, much like they have for many of their games during the slide. Their combined efforts in all three game phases produced a high-scoring, fast-paced match that ended in a 4-3 shootout victory for them.
Aside from ending the losing streak, there was plenty to celebrate on an electrifying night at Honda Center. In addition to setting a record for the Ducks in goalkeeping, Alex Killorn scored a goal, and Josh Manson—a fan favorite and longtime Duck—made his first visit back to Anaheim since his trade in 2022. Ultimately, Leo Carlsson performed admirably and kept proving why he was selected second overall in the previous summer’s draft. Let’s examine some lessons learned from the thrilling victory.
Positive: Gibson Shaky to Start But Stellar as Game Went On
Last night, Gibson participated in his 448th Ducks game, setting a record for goalies with the team. If he stays in a Ducks uniform, he will undoubtedly set many more goaltending records after passing Guy Herbert to establish the milestone.
But things didn’t go well at first. In the opening minute of play, Brett Leason of the Ducks and Bowen Byram of the Avalanche traded chances, but it was Byram who would defeat Gibson on a shot that most would argue he should have stopped. Nine minutes later, Byram would get his second, and it seemed like they were headed to the races.
That is not how things would end out. The players ahead of him put on a generally strong first half, and Gibson continued to improve as he usually does. After a rocky beginning, he steadied out and challenged Avalanche shooters throughout the evening. His play is confident when he’s on. He managed to keep the Ducks in the back-and-forth game within striking distance.
Positive: Ducks can win games when all four lines are active.
This Ducks team has proven that it is capable of competing with and even defeating the top NHL teams. How soon can they accomplish that? Initially, when all four lines appear. And against the Avalanche, that was the situation.
First up, we have Troy Terry, Killorn, and Carlsson in the top line. Everywhere on the ice were they. Together, they attempted 12 shots on goal. They were creating opportunities, holding possession in the offensive zone, and applying pressure to the Avalanche defense that head coach Greg Cronin seemed to throw them out there on every other shift during the third period. Killorn had two points apiece, easily his best performance as a Duck. Carlsson also had two points. It was wonderful to witness. The Ducks are capable of taking on any team if they can do that more often.
Mason McTavish was lost by the Ducks in the opening frame, but Ryan Strome and Frank Vatrano were operating normally. They created opportunities, put shots on goal, and each scored a point. These two have a pit bull snarl that is refreshing to watch them play with. They have no qualms about confronting the opposition. They were at it again against the Avalanche, and that’s part of what makes them effective.
The bottom-six forward group, likewise, was excellent in the win. Adam Henrique contributed a goal and saw more ice time after McTavish’s exit. So did Bo Groulx. Leason had great looks at the net. Max Jones, ever his physical and pesky self, has been finding his game lately and was all over the Avalanche defense.
These comprehensive efforts, taken as a whole, boost confidence. And notice what I mean when I say “complete”: Of the twelve forwards, ten had one on goal. Every forward saw at least 12 minutes of action, and they were all called upon at various times to cover for McTavish’s regrettable departure. It’s difficult not to recognize the upfront effort. Bravo also to the defense for their efforts. The Ducks’ six blue liners were all razor-sharp, made plays in both zones, and gave it their all when facing some of the league’s most dynamic forwards.
Once More, Special Teams Was Outstanding and the Distinction
With the talent on the opposing team, the special teams contest was always going to be crucial. The first power-play unit does a great job of moving the puck. They are cunning, make snap judgments, and are excellent at keeping the inexperienced unit guessing. On all of their power play chances, Mikko Rantanen, Nathan MacKinnon, and Cale Makar didn’t leave the ice very often, but the Ducks shut them out completely.
Conversely, the Ducks cashed in when playing on the man advantage. Both units scored big goals – Henrique in the first to make the game 2-1 and Killorn in the second to make it 3-3. The look of the power play has been great of late, with guys moving the puck, looking to shoot, and winning the positioning battles. It was a complete and diversified effort in the special teams arena as well, and it was the difference in the game.
Negative: McTavish Leaves in the First Period
Not much has changed since McTavish left the game in the first period due to an undisclosed injury. One hopes McTavish misses little to none at all, considering the other young Ducks stars’ mysterious recovery timelines and injury woes. Like Carlsson, he has excelled this season. He plays with tenacity, skill, and intelligence. He drives the Strome and Vatrano line. This is a plot that will be followed in the next few days because the Ducks need him.
On Tuesday, Ducks and Avalanche Relive It All Again
If 65 high-paced minutes and an exciting shootout weren’t enough to satiate your appetite for this matchup, you’re in luck because these two teams will face off again at Ball Arena in Denver on Tuesday, December 5.
Let’s pause for a moment to enjoy the best parts of such a victory. From Gibson’s performance to Carlsson’s flawless game-winning move, and from all 17 skaters (aside from McTavish) putting in a total effort to win against a stronger opponent. Now that the losing run has been officially ended, the Ducks can move on.