Anaheim probably wasn't considered a straight powerhouse in the last 5 or so years, but they have been in the mix every one of those years. Largely due to the two forwards Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf.
This season has taken quite a turn.
After winning last night, the Ducks are 2 - 7 - 2. Not to say they can't turn this around. They can. But watching this team so far, they are much less threatening than they have been. Why?
It can't be blamed on goaltending. Actually, Frederik Andersen is the best goalie they've had. Hiller was and is a shaky goalie at best. Victor Fasth was decent but sank on the Oilers. Andersen is really playing well.
Should we just blame Perry and Getzlaf? Well, Getzlaf is recovering from an appendectomy - so that seems unfair. And Perry, although not getting points, he's been playing well - generating decent shots. Clearly, though, some blame should fall on these two for not being there as they have in the past.
Yet, I think the Ducks are missing these guys:
Matt Belesky
Kyle Palmieri
Devante Smith-Pelly
Francois Beauchemin
That is basically one line that was putting in 14+ minutes a night - good third line minutes. And a +17 defenseman who put in 22+ a night.
These guys are energy guys that make opponents work. They can finish when needed. They get back on defense. They are speedy skaters.
That kind of thing is hard to replace in this league.
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