Best and Worst: There is Always Tomorrow

The Ducks are off to an 0-2 start but already have four combined goals. It took them four games to reach that mark last year. Positives, people!

Best: The Ducks scored a power play goal

Anaheim scored their first power play goal of the season (including both the preseason and regular season). Fowler is shooting more frequently than in year’s past and was quickly rewarded for his effort. Kesler provided the screen for the first tally of the night. Even though it was almost a full two-minute, five on three power play, the Ducks will take what they can get while still missing Lindholm and Rakell.

Worst: Randy Carlyle’s ice-time management

Everyone knew going into the season that the Anaheim’s top guys would be playing A LOT. But did you think they would be so lopsided on the front end of a back-to-back? It will be interesting to see how Carlyle manages the next game against the Islanders. Sami Vatanen led all skaters with 25:48 minutes.

Best: Jared Boll didn’t take a penalty!

That’s kind of impressive in six minutes of playing time, right?

Worst: The lack of depth scoring

If Anaheim wants to be a competitive team, the bottom six needs to start generating more chances against opposing teams. So far they haven’t been very impressive. Hopefully Emerson Etem can add a little speed to that group. Combining Etem, Wagner, and Sorenson could make for a decent kid line.

Best: Ryan Getzlaf

The Captain had the primary assist on both of the Ducks goals tonight. The Twins are already in mid-season form. Perry had the most ice time for any forward with 22:44.

Worst: 45 shots against

Give the goalies a break, please. They have feelings too.

Three Stars:

3) PPG Paints Arena

Really has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?

2) The Twins

Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry are really good at hockey. The duo continues to lead to Ducks offense and was even “rewarded” with PK time. That may not be the best idea given their inflated ice time numbers through two games, but until every line starts to click that may be Carlyle’s best option.

1) Jonathan Bernier

Even though his play was suspect at times, he still stopped 42 of 45 shots to keep the Ducks within a goal. If he can cut down on his rebounds and the defense can limit shot attempts against, Bernier could be a solid addition to this team.