Quick Thought

A couple of nights ago, the Anaheim Ducks and St. Louis Blues had their game postponed after a scary moment on the visitor’s bench. Jay Bouwmeester collapsed at the end of the bench suffering a cardiac episode less than 13 minutes into the game. As the on-site first responders tended to Bouwmeester, the Ducks agreed to postpone the game for a later date.

Just over two weeks after the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant, to have something like this happen is scary for fans and viewers everywhere and we can only imagine how the players on the ice were feeling. Some looked distraught while others were on their knees sending prayers and good vibes his way. On behalf of the Anaheim Calling community, thank you to the first responders on-site and anyone who works as a first responder in any setting. We’re grateful for all you do. Sending prayers and well-wishes to the Bouwmeester family during this time.

GAME 57

Date: Thursday, February 13, 2020

Time: 7:00 PM PST

Location: Honda Center

TV: Fox Sports West

Radio: AM 830

Due to the postponed game against the Blues, the Anaheim Ducks haven’t played a full game since Sunday’s win against the Buffalo Sabres. Hopefully the extra rest has helped those with injuries or fighting off the flu. We’re still seeing solid play from the usual suspects, but there are moments of lackadaisical effort. The Ducks scored three goals against the Sabres in their last full game and things went downhill from there. Let’s hope they put in a more solid effort tonight.

The Ducks enter tonight’s game with a 6-2-2 record over their last 10 and while their play continues to fluctuate, fans are starting to see a competitiveness to this team that hasn’t been seen much this season. Anaheim will look to build on any momentum they can get and continue to work toward the future.

On the other end of the rink, the Calgary Flames are coming in to the second game of a back-to-back set. They lost 5-3 to the Los Angeles Kings last night despite having a two-goal night from Elias Lindholm. Led by a youth movement consisting of players like Matthew Tkachuk and Johnny Gaudreau, the Flames are fighting for their playoff lives as they are currently tied for the third spot in the Pacific Division with the Vegas Golden Knights and Arizona Coyotes. They will look to get back in the win column tonight against another one of the worst teams in the league.

Players To Watch

Matthew Tkachuk - If there’s a player who emulates the word “pest”, it’s Matthew Tkachuk. He lives in the gray area of right and wrong and is always getting under people’s skin. At just 22 years old, he’s already showing signs of elite play and with his edge, he’s someone to keep an eye on. The Ducks cannot get suckered into penalties if they want to stand a chance.

Adam Henrique - Henrique is having a career year with 18 goals and a good chunk of games left. He always finds the soft spots on the ice and knows exactly where to be. He scores from all over and he’s leading this goal-starved team in tallies. Get a good look, because he may not be around much longer with the trade deadline looming. You never know.