And he shoots... he scores!!

Boudreau's first practice

2011-12-01T18:15:00.000-08:00

The last 24 hours have been nothing but a whirlwind for the Anaheim Ducks and their fans. Who would believe we'd follow up last night's win against the Montreal Canadiens with an official announcement that coach Randy Carlyle was fired and freshly-relieved ex-Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau hired in his place?

And that Bruce was already in Anaheim to lead the team on their first practice the next morning??

Wow.

The practice was open to the public and, since I didn't have to be at the job that pays the bills, I grabbed my camera and headed down to Anaheim Ice. The ABC and NBC newsvans in the parking lot were a tip off that the press conference that would follow the practice would be a big deal. Indeed, there were quite a few media people milling about the rink, and only a handful of fans.

Boudreau's first practice with the boys at Anaheim Ice

My first order of business, making sure Bobby Ryan was still on the team!

Ryan Getzlaf (left), Nate Guenin, and Bobby

Boudreau had Bobby back on a line with Getzlaf and Corey Perry, and a second line consisting of Saku Koivu, Teemu Selanne, and Matt Beleskey.

For now, I suppose the Bobby Ryan trade rumors will die down. GM Bob Murray will see what Boudreau can do with the players. But if we can't get some wins, Bobby might end up back on the trade block. Even he agreed that, with his multiple-year contract, he's more trade-able than guys like Getzy or Corey Perry. Personally, I think Bobby is the more versatile player as well, and many teams would love trying him out on their top lines.

The practice session had Boudreau addressing a lot of the players in small groups

Ducks bring on assistant coach Brad Lauer (far left) who was the Syracuse Crunch's assistant coach

I like how vocal Boudreau was with the players. It definitely sounded like there was a lot of teaching, directing, COACHING, going on.

Goalie coach Pete Peeters worked individually with Jonas Hiller (and his black mask)...

... and backup Jeff Deslauriers

At the end of practice, the guys were actually laughing and cheering and having some fun. Look at those smiles!

I feel hopeful, for the first time in a long time. Can't wait to see what a new coaching staff can do for our players.

Ducks vs Toronto Maple Leafs

2011-11-28T02:47:00.000-08:00

I have a coworker whose father has been a Ducks season ticket holder since day 1. He doesn't go to games anymore, but he still has his seats which get divided up by various family members at the beginning of every season.

My coworker graciously allows us to buy occasional seats at face value. Tonight's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs (aka the Anaheim Ducks of Toronto) is the first of six that I'm splitting with another coworker. I chose this game for one reason: Matthew Lombardi. Haven't seen Lombo live on the ice in almost two years (he spent last season with the Nashville Predators and, thanks to a concussion he received in early October, he missed all of his team's games against the Ducks).

And I was stuck with tickets to every Predator-Duck game.

So now Lombo is with the Leafs and he's recovered from that concussion. BUT, he suffered a shoulder injury last week and has been out on IR. ARGH.

One of these days, Lombo, I WILL see you again.

At least reason number two for getting this game was still valid: my seat buddy is a big Joffrey Lupul fan. Loops didn't leave the Ducks on a good note so we're expecting him to pour the heat on tonight.

It's amazing what kind of season Lupul has had with the Leafs. He went on record and exposed the cold reception he'd received from Coach Carlyle upon returning to the Ducks' lineup after his back surgery and blood infection. We knew he'd have plenty to prove tonight.

Please Loops, have mercy

Lost, also, in the Lupul trade was promising rookie Jake Gardiner. I'm still upset about that, the kid had major potential

Leafs goalies, rookie Ben Scrivens and veteran Jonas "The Monster" Gustavsson

Of course, we'd get The Monster tonight

We badly need a win. The Ducks are on a six-game losing streak and you can feel the tension on the bench. The boys started the game determined, and we even scored first.

Ducks celebrate after Francois Beauchemin's winning rocket down the slot

Playing aggressively the entire night, Lupul threw his weight around as he checked and pushed Ducks on their way back to the bench

Rough night for Sheldon Brookbank who took a puck to the face and got tripped and run over behind the net

Once the Leafs started scoring, a dark cloud came over the Ducks' bench. It was as if the players were collectively saying, "Oh dear God no, not again..." You could see the disappointment on their faces, in their body language, in the lack of energy.

It was heartbreaking.

Feel free, Ducks fans, to print this one out and fit it to your favorite dartboard, punching bag, etc...

Honestly, and this is just my opinion, I'm not a GM or coach nor do I ever want to have that kind of job hanging over my head, but I don't believe anyone on the bench is hearing Carlyle anymore. He was remarkably quiet during this game. I've previously seen him yelling, barking orders, planning plays during commercial breaks and the like. Tonight's game was different.

On the other hand, I loved how assistant coach Mike Foligno would pat guys on the shoulder after they got off the ice. He would lean his head to them and give them a few words when they took a seat back on the bench. Whether it was encouragement or constructive criticism, it just looked like a connection with someone who cares.

This is the guy I want to be our head coach. Look what he did with our PK, imagine what else he could do.

Our boys look lost and disheartened. They need guidance.

Teemu Selanne deserves better in his final season

Bobby Ryan: I guess I'm the pink elephant in the room...

Corey Perry's absolutely beautiful top shelf snap shot goal was easily lost in the Ducks' defeat

I don't know, Ducks fans. Something needs to happen, and I really don't believe it involves trading off our multiple-year 30+ goal scorers. But that's just me.

Ducks vs Chicago Blackhawks

2011-11-26T00:45:00.000-08:00

Something different for this post?

No, we still lost.

But I'm going to do a little something I don't do much of around here anymore, and that's write. It's been hard to do much posting... I mean, it's always hard to write about losses. But this season's string of losses (the last time we won one was 11/11 and I was out of the country that night) has gotten even the most faithful of Duck fans frustrated.

Is it the players?

Is it the coaching staff?

Is it the head coach?

Is it the GM?

Or any combination of the above? The answers are probably in the locker room, at every intermission, at every practice, after every game. But we fans are pretty much in the dark, with only our own speculations and rumors to go off of.

And the rumors have been kinda nasty. Maybe a key player will get traded off. Maybe a bunch of young talent will go with him. Maybe a majority of the team will be disassembled before the coaching staff is touched.

I've heard rumors that Bobby Ryan may be on the trading block, with Toronto and Buffalo interested. Ugh. If that happens, either Toronto or Buffalo will be getting a new fan, much the same as I've followed center Matthew Lombardi from Calgary to Phoenix to Nashville, and now to Toronto.

But who's to say?

All I know is that I've seen too many games where the same tired, unconfident team takes the ice. I've seen too many dump and chase maneuvers fall flat. Too many leads lost when the offense disappears and the defense fails to achieve. Too many players waste their skills on plays and styles that don't suit them.

And it's so hard to see this happen.

I feel so horrible for Teemu Selanne, who came back for one more year but might not even see a postseason. This is no way for Selanne to end his career. I feel horrible for the goalies, who might put in a perfect game save the fact that they cannot score all of the team's goals in addition to protecting their nets. I feel horrible for the young guys who are trying so hard, but whose development is undoubtedly being stunted by everything going on around them.

And I feel horrible for us fans who paid to helplessly watch this happen night in and night out.

Please, comments are welcomed.

Ellis: "Dude, you don't EVEN know the half of it..."

Ducks vs Detroit Red Wings

2011-11-21T00:21:00.000-08:00

Another loss. Not much else to say, just some pictures to share.

Check out Dan Ellis' new mask, inspired by the Ducks tradition of honoring one of our soldiers at every home game

Newly acquired off waivers from Calgary, defenseman Niklas Hagman. (Please save us?)

Corey Perry in his usual spot next to the opposing goaltender, waiting for pucks to tip in

Captain Ryan Getzlaf concentrating at the faceoff

Pavel Datsyuk, the one Red Wing I can't hate because he's just so damn silky smooth

Ducks vs Dallas Stars

2011-10-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

When the Stars get a fluky puck past Jonas Hiller a mere 13 seconds into the game, you kinda know things might not go the Ducks' way. Throw in a lackluster effort and an underrated Stars team flying on the shoulders of a hot goalie in Kari Lehtonen, and it was pretty much doomed from the first puck drop.

And don't even get me started on the officiating!

Believe it or not, there were some notable moments in tonight's game. We'll try to focus on those.

It was Hockey Fights Cancer night at the Ponda, and the Ducks wore special stamps on their helmets in support for cancer charities. Thanks, Andrew Gordon, for modeling

Cue the ceremonial puck drop

Francois Beauchemin looked no worse for wear after taking a puck to the visor and luckily ending up with only a compression laceration.

Defenseman Kurtis Foster from Edmonton had been cleared for play.

He'd be a healthy scratch in tonight's contest, but it was great to see him out there. I'm definitely curious to see what this guy can do.

A long awaited Duck goal was waived off when Perry was penalized for goaltender interference

Our boys actually got many opportunities to score. They were outshooting the Stars from the beginning, but just couldn't get anything past Lehtonen.

I have to admit, I was impressed by this goalie.

Lehtonen's impression of a stone wall. For what it's worth, Perry was the only Duck goal of the game

Ryan Getzlaf also impressed with some fancy stickwork

I do think Getzy looks a heck of a lot better this season than last. More fit, more determined, and with a new sense of maturity, he seems more suited to captain this team. Maybe being a new daddy has something to do with that.

Anyway, the winning streak had to end some time. The Ducks have still broken franchise records and started things off on a good note. Let's forget this one and move on to Phoenix!

Ducks vs San Jose Sharks, Home Opener

2011-10-15T03:27:00.000-07:00

After spending the first two games of the season abroad in Europe, our Ducks got a few days of rest and relaxation to get over any jet lag before tonight's home opener against the San Jose Sharks. As is customary with home openers, the Ducks rolled out a "Blue Carpet" so that the fans could welcome back their boys in Hollywood star fashion.

Hey, we're a Southern California hockey team, okay?

Unfortunately, I was working the job that pays the bills, so I couldn't get any pictures from the Blue Carpet, but I did get a few from the game itself.

There was live music pre-game (I forget the name of the band)

Big smiles from Captain Ryan Getzlaf during warmups. Heck, everyone was happy to be back!

Notice the "24" patch being worn by all the Ducks in tribute to fallen former Duck Ruslan Salei

Rookie Maxime Macenauer would be the only player to tally a goal in tonight's contest

Keep an eye on this kid. I've liked Maxie since last season, when he was the last of the rookies to be sent down to minors. The boy is very good in the faceoff dot.

What a relief! This would be Toni Lydman's first game back since shoulder surgery during the off-season

The Ducks had a rousing opening video thanking the fans and welcoming us back to the Ponda for a new season of Ducks hockey. The opening ceremony involved the boys entering the rink through the zamboni tunnel, backlit by smoke and red lighting.

MVP Corey Perry was welcomed onto the rink by a standing ovation

The game itself was awesome. I still believe the rivalry between the Sharks and the Ducks makes both teams play all the harder. You really do get the best performances from both. And Hiller? Have no fear, Hiller the Shark Killer is back. He earned his first shutout of the season, 20th in his career.

The boys celebrate a win with Hiller, number one star of the game

Our D looked a complete 180 from this time last season. With most of the guys returning, it definitely shows that they are all comfortable playing together again.

The offense is taking a bit longer to gel, but with two strong scoring lines, and possibly three... it's only a matter of time.

The Sharks fans in attendance (I heard there were busloads of them that came in for this game) were extremely loud. For once, we Duck fans showed them up. I've honestly never heard the Ponda that loud before during a non-playoff game. It was awesome!!

Ducks hockey is back!!

Ducks vs Vancouver Canucks

2011-09-29T00:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, just another preseason game, but hopefully one that will give us fans a good idea of what to expect from our boys this season. It was reported that coach Carlyle would be keeping the top RPG line intact, the Fins would be joined by Brandon McMillan on the second line, Andrew Cogliano would play center to Devante Smith-Pelly and Andrew Gordon on the third.

I'm still liking what I've seen with Gordon as well as Maxime Macenauer, hoping they continue their strong strides for roster spots.

I'm also incredibly curious to see how Jonas Hiller fares in between the pipes. He played against the Canucks in Vancouver a few days ago, but I want to see him on home ice with my own eyes.

As for the Canucks, I'm hearing that there are a lot of rookies trying to make the roster. And a lot of the veterans haven't seen much ice time yet. So it might be a slightly lopsided affair, but after watching our rookies beat the pants off of the Los Angeles Kings (who were playing some of their big guns) at the Staples Center Sunday night, anything is possible.

This is hockey afterall, right??

Training Camp 2011

2011-09-20T01:15:00.000-07:00

I'm not yet done with all the pics from training camp, but I wanted to get the preliminary shots up here. More to come! Enjoy!

Jason Blake, Igor Bobkov, and Devante Smith-Pelly

Listening to instructions from coach Carlyle

Dan Ellis stops a bid assisted by newly drafted Richard Rakell

MVPerry is ready for his close-up

Back again for another training camp, Sheldon Brookbank

Captain Ryan Getzlaf

Chit-chatting between Perry and Getzlaf

Luca Sbisa and, in the background, Finnish goaltender Iiro Tarkki

Tarkki with a great save

Smith-Pelly and Sbisa

Dan Sexton and Jason Blake

Promising defenseman Jake Newton

Igor Bobkov takes a break

Rakell watches Mathieu Carle in a relay

Bobby Ryan

Jonas Hiller stretching out

Speedy newcomer from Edmonton, Andrew Cogliano

Matt Beleskey and Saku Koivu

Teemu Selanne tries to get one past Hiller

Also from Edmonton, Jeff Deslauriers

Bobby listening to the coaches as they set up a drill

Rookie Joseph Cramarossa

Cam Fowler signing autographs

Ryan Getzlaf hung out and signed autographs and took pictures with everyone

Much to our amusement, Bobby picked up a bunch of rookie "Ducklings" and offered them a ride to their hotel

Francois Beauchemin signing an autograph

Fan favorites George Parros and Teemu "one more" Selanne

3rd Annual Anaheim Ducks In a Roll

2011-09-12T23:34:00.000-07:00

What's quickly becoming a very popular preseason event, the 3rd annual Anaheim Ducks in a Roll took place tonight at RA Sushi in Tustin.

Including this year, I've now been to all three and I can accurately say that it gets more and more crowded every year. When it was announced that Ducks captain Ryan Getzlaf would be joined by Bobby Ryan and newcomer Andrew Cogliano, along with one lucky fan, I knew this year's event was going to be a zoo.

The calm before the storm

Arriving early didn't help much. Everyone was there early!

Like last year, seating was virtually nonexistent. There were a few standing tables, but otherwise, fans had to mill about and eat their sushi on the go. The "rules" were basically the same. Guests got to watch the boys roll their specialty sushi rolls and sample each roll. Purchasing a roll for $10 would count as a "fan vote" for that player, and $2 would go to the Anaheim Ducks Foundation. The roll with the most votes earns that player a win in the Fan Favorite category.

Fans eagerly awaiting

Rolls were also rated by a panel of judges and, in the end, an ultimate winner would be announced. That roll would be available on RA Sushi menus for the majority of the upcoming season, along with the $2 donation to charity.

Streamlined from last year, premade rolls were ready to go before the boys learned how to make them

Year after year, the players have a lot of fun with this event. And the fans do too. Let's look at some pictures!

Andrew Cogliano learning how to make his roll

Cogs: "So, how do I start?"

Getting heckled by Gezlaf, although Getzy did admit Cogs' roll was pretty good

Cogs presenting the "Breakaway" roll

"Breakaway" roll: yellowtail, spicy albacore, avocado and cucumber, drizzled with garlic ponzu and sriracha and topped with a slice of jalapeno

Getzlaf taking note of his available ingredients. No poutine, eh?

Bobby Ryan and Getzlaf discussing the finer points of sticky rice

All three Ducks hard at work

Ducks fan and winner with the highest bid, $550, Jeff Banner

Honestly, I thought Jeff's roll, the "Slapshot" (salmon, mango salsa, cream cheese inside; eel, roe, and eel sauce outside) was really good. I'm not a fan of jalapenos or spicy food so Jeff's was perfect for me.

Getzy learning how to make his roll, the "Captain Crunch" roll

What a pro!

Getzy presenting his roll to the fans

Getzy's "Captain Crunch" roll: spicy tuna, shrimp tempura, cucumber, and crunchy tempura bits, with a chili ponzu dipping sauce

Bobby learning how to make his roll, the "Hat Trick" roll

Bobby: "We don't actually come up with the names or ingredients in these..."

Bobby presenting his finished roll

The "Hat Trick" roll: salmon, spicy mayo, avocado and cucumber inside; crab mix and mango salsa outside

I really liked Bobby's roll too. Not too spicy, but very tasty. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately, considering the fate of past fan favorite winners--they always end up traded), Bobby's came in third in the voting.

Getzlaf walked away with the fan favorite vote...

... but it was Cogliano and his "Breakaway" roll that won the judging

You can pick up the "Breakaway" roll at SoCali RA Sushi locations from October 11 until early April of next year, with $2 going to the Anaheim Ducks Foundation.

Said one judge, "Cogliano's roll has a bite to it, which you wouldn't expect from a player who just spent two seasons in Edmonton..."

As always, a fun event!

RIP Ruslan "Rusty" Salei

2011-09-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

This morning, a plane carrying KHL team Lokomotiv from Yaroslavl to Minsk, Belarus crashed shortly after takeoff. 43 people were killed, among them, crew and former NHL players. One player and one crew member survived, but are listed in critical condition.

Former Mighty Duck Ruslan "Rusty" Salei was aboard this flight. His death was confirmed by the Russian Emergency Ministry. Salei spent 9 years on the Mighty Duck roster, becoming a beloved teammate and fan favorite.

The following was issued by the Anaheim Ducks organization:

"The Anaheim Ducks organization is shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Ruslan Salei. ‘Rusty’ was a fan favorite and dedicated member of the Orange County community since being drafted by Anaheim in 1996. Our thoughts and prayers go to his wife and three children, along with all of the other members of the hockey community affected by this horrible tragedy."

To pay their respects, Ducks fans erected a memorial at the Wild Wing statue outside of the Ponda.

More pictures courtesy of the OC Register: Slideshow

Salei leaves behind a wife and three children. He was 36.

You'll be missed, Rusty.

14th Annual Fedorin Cup

2011-08-29T18:08:00.000-07:00

The temperature gauge in my truck read "105°F." But I wasn't worried about being the least bit miserable. This is when being a hockey fan in Southern California pays off in dividends.

What better place to be than in the crisp, cool environment of an ice hockey rink?

With the smell of the rink, the sound of the puck bouncing off the boards and glass, and the buzzing of starved hockey fans, Anaheim Ice was the place to be last Saturday afternoon.

Originally established in 1998 in memory of Eric Fedorin, a Californian hockey player whose life was cut short by brain cancer, the annual Fedorin Cup raises money for cancer charities. Hockey pros of the past and present play a friendly game of puck, prizes are auctioned and raffled off, and hockey fans gather in the spirit of giving and preseason excitement.

I've been to this event for the past two years and it always signals a sort of pre-preseason for me. Hockey's coming back, and the fans are more than ready.

This year's roster was a little short on the star power, but one star made up for that. It wasn't until the very last minute that we found out Teemu Selanne would be playing, but that didn't keep the fans from lining up hours beforehand.

Packed house at Anaheim Ice

The format was according to tradition, Team USA versus Team Canada, with any token Finns suiting up with the Americans. Rookies were linemates with local veterans and NHLers. Rosters included newly-retired Todd Marchant, fresh-acquisition Jake Newton, and perennial favorite Rick Hutchinson (all playing on Team USA); and journeyman Sean Pronger and ex-Duck-now-King Dustin Penner (both playing on Team Canada).

Let's check out the pictures!

I spy Teemu at the right end of that lineup!

Team Canada standing tall during their national anthem

Would it surprise anyone that Teemu got the loudest cheers?

Selanne and Team Canada captain Jason Marshall in the ceremonial puck drop

Selanne in his "office" waiting for the pass

You could feel the audience holding their breath every time Teemu approached the goal...

The Flash looked absolutely awesome out on the ice. He was his usual speedy self and, even though the hands looked a tad rusty, the huge smile on his face spoke volumes. The man loves this game.

Todd Marchant and Dustin Penner exchange pleasantries at the beginning of the second

Even the rookies got a chance to shine.

First-timer Erle Petrie lands one in behind goaltender Tom Spiers

Free agency signee Jack Newton, a defenseman that the Ducks acquired last year, also looked very promising. I believe he scored twice

A laser courtesy of Tyler Robertson

Team USA celebrating Robertson's goal

Selanne winding up...

... and chasing in the corners

I'm glad Marchant also got some love from the crowd

I tried to get in on Newton's game-worn jersey in the silent auction, but was outbid

Despite Team USA's substantial lead over Team Canada at one point, Canada rallied to bring things to a shootout.

Teemu always has tricks up his sleeve for a shootout. This one was no different. With speed, he approached Spiers, came to a halt and, as the goaltender lost sight of the puck and spun around, snuck it slowly behind his back through the paint and into the goal.

Another Teemu classic

The crowd erupted, of course.

The final Team USA shooter sealed the deal, and Team USA would win it!

The ceremonial postgame handshake

Everyone assembled for the group photo...

... and then individual photos with Teemu, who gladly obliged them all

I'm not going to ponder about Teemu's pending retirement decision. We'll all know soon enough. But if the Fedorin is any indication, I'd say stopping now looks like the last thing he wants to do.

Next up, the Ducks will open training camp on September 17th. Get ready, hockey fans!

Meet Bobby!

2011-07-28T00:38:00.000-07:00

**blowing dust off the ole blog**

The off-season is feeling so long. My fellow Duck friends and I have tried to pass the time by planning group trips for next season's games, and trying to get tickets squared away, but it isn't the same.

Hey Teemu, give us Duck fans some exciting news... like you're returning to play next season!

Well, for those who are available this coming Saturday, Bobby Ryan will be on hand at the Hockey Monkey in Santa Ana for pictures and autographs. Yes, this is the same hockey supply store that hosted Jonas Hiller and ex-Duck-now-Coyote Curtis McElhinney earlier in the summer.

I'll be at the job that pays the bills, trying to figure out if I can sneak away...

2011 NHL Awards (Part 2)

2011-06-24T19:33:00.000-07:00

The next morning, we headed out early to the Palms hotel to check out the scene for that afternoon's red carpet ceremony. Having been to the NHL Awards two years ago (that post is linked in the side bar), I remember having to get there early in order to secure a spot against the barricade that wasn't in the blistering sun.

Today's 110-degree forecast made that even more imperative!

Setting up the live video feed area of the red carpet

Players and celebrities would walk the carpet to the Pearl Theater for the awards show

Only a small group of fans and autograph hounds were present and we were able to grab some limited edition merchandise as well as awesome spots for the red carpet.

Limited edition NHL Awards pucks, mini trophies, hats, and other merch for sale

Deb Placey and Jeremy Roenick getting ready

JR getting mic'd up

Makeup touches for Deb

JR and Kevin Weekes

JR with his JR-cam: "Can I just get a little respect?"

A blurry shot of JR entertaining us with some air guitar

Host Jay Mohr being pulled in for a few words

First to reach us, best rookie Calder nominee Michael Grabner of the New York Islanders

Another Calder nominee, San Jose Sharks' Logan Couture

Nominated for GM of the year, Nashville Predators' David Poile

King Clancy Memorial Trophy winner (for leadership and humanitarian contributions) Doug Weight

Jack Adams Award (best coach) nominee Barry Trotz of the Nashville Predators

Carolina Hurricanes' Jeff Skinner, the actual Calder winner

NHL Foundation Player Award winner, Dustin Brown

Norris Trophy nominee Shea Weber

We'd seen Shea at the blackjack tables the night before. Recall I nearly got myself kicked out of the casino for taking pictures around the tables.

My buddy: "How was the blackjack?" Shea: "Not good, man."

Ted Lindsay Award nominee Steven Stamkos, for the most outstanding player as voted for by fellow players

This kid will never wash his arm again. For the record, Stamkos got Mom's blessing before he inked the arm

Stamkos' teammate, Martin St. Louis, winner of the Lady Byng

Magician and presenter Criss Angel... who I think kinda looks like Alice Cooper, but maybe that's just me

Norris winner and Mark Messier nominee Nicklas Lidstrom... and a volunteer who undoubtedly wants Nick's autograph too

Nick's -insert synonym for "perfect" here- family watching him sign autographs

Mister and Missus Ryan Getzlaf

Woo! Our very own Rocket Richard and Hart Trophy winner, Corey Perry

Mark Messier and...

... Jack Adams winner, Pittsburgh Penguins coach Dan Bylsma

Selke award winner Ryan Kesler looking a little worn out from the previous night's events

Vezina winner, and my personal favorite, Boston Bruins' Tim Thomas

Vancouver Canucks goaltender Roberto Luongo getting caught "outside the paint"

Luongo actually got booed on the red carpet. Not sure if Canucks fans were doing the booing, but it could've also been the loud Red Wing fans near us.

The other half of the William Jennings Award winning tandem, Cory Schneider

Mark Messier leadership award winner, Zdeno Chara

Vezina award nominee, and official nemesis of Ducks fans everywhere, Nashville Predators' Pekka Rinne

The Ted Lindsay award which, upon second inspection, I'm noticing the broken hockey stick held together with tape!

We were coming up on 4pm now, and the awards show would be starting. It was definitely a relief to get out of the heat and into an air-conditioned theater!

Despite the box office's claims of the show being "sold out," there were a lot of empty seats. We, the audience, were encouraged to cheer/yell/scream and provide an enthusiastic backdrop for the show. "You can't be too loud," they told us, but looking around the audience which consisted primarily of teammates, family, and industry folk (not fans), being too loud wasn't going to be a problem.

I managed to get Rebel's zoom lens into the theater, so my shots could be close-ups. But, the downside is that getting a non-blurry shot at full zoom without a tripod would be difficult. Bear with me! Got a bunch of pictures, but we'll focus on the highlights.

Musical act Dierks Bentley rocked the stage

Dan Bylsma, as he wrestled the Jack Adams award away from presenter Donny Osmond: "It's not the dancing award"

Jeff Skinner, looking all of 12 years old, was awarded the Calder trophy for best rookie

The cover for EA Sports NHL 12 was revealed

Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider were awarded the Jennings for their outstanding play during the regular season

Our very own Corey Perry received the Rocket Richard for the most goals during the regular season

My apologies for the blurry Perry pics, I was kind of busy screaming and cheering every time Perry's (and any other Duck for that matter) name was announced.

Ian Laperriere received the Masterton trophy, winning over our goaltender Ray Emery

Stanley Cup champions, the Boston Bruins, represented by Thomas and Chara

Thomas also walked away with the Vezina for best goaltender

And the big one...

Corey Perry won the Hart trophy for Most Valuable Player!! Again, I apologize for the blurry picture, but I was screaming my head off the instant Corey's name was announced

Perry was visibly choked up as he received his Hart. His parents, brother, and other extended family members were there to share his moment of glory. Such a huge step for Corey, for the Anaheim Ducks, and for California hockey in general! Me and my fellow Duck friend couldn't stop yelling in celebration. This was a moment for all Ducks fans.

Way to go, CP! You EARNED this!!

We were more than ready to celebrate Perry's win at the cocktail reception that followed. Guests were herded into the pool area adjacent to the Rain Nightclub. An open bar and hors d'oeuvres awaited.

EA Sports NHL 12 coverboy Steven Stamkos signing autographs

Stamkos found himself stuck in a part of the pool area where he was surrounded on three sides by water. Not the best place to be, he was trapped by continual groups of fans looking for autographs and pictures. Kudos to him for being friendly and engaging throughout the onslaught.

Poor guy. I think he should've just jumped in the pool and swam to freedom.

Bobby Ryan was in attendance to support linemate Perry, and to debut the newest installment of Ryan vs Ryan with captain Getzlaf

Bobby inquired about my summer. I told him I liked watching the Stanley Cup Finals and all, but it wasn't the same without Ducks hockey. He agreed and said he thought the team was much better than getting knocked out in the first round. "The suspension didn't help," he added.

Jeff Skinner looking a little nervous, did someone card him at the entrance??

Ex-teammates Dan Bylsma and Ian Laperriere both took home hardware, the Jack Adams and Masterton respectively

Ducks Kent French posing for pictures with fans

Lord Stanley chillin' in the pool

A woman did attempt to swim out to Stanley, but she was stopped by security before she got halfway there. Kinda didn't blame her. It was damn hot, and that water looked so good.

All in all, another awesome event for players and fans alike. Here's hoping they continue it as an annual occurrence in Vegas. I know I'd love to come back next year.

Live from the 2011 NHL Awards (Part 1)

2011-06-22T02:28:00.000-07:00

Annnndddd... coming to you from Las Vegas!!!

Although, I almost didn't get here. My truck suffered a blowout to the rear driver's side wheel that left me stranded on the side of the highway for a good 45 minutes waiting for the tow truck. Did I mention it was a blistering 100+ degrees outside?

All I can say is, thank god for AAA.

After that 2-hour delay (the guy had to try two different jacks to lift the truck), I was finally back on the road, but shaken a bit.

Got in a little after 6pm. Got some grub and then off to the Palms to scope out the scene.

There was a little pre-party shindig thrown by Dustin Brown that I might have hit up, but dinner left me feeling too lazy, haha. At least there were a few nuggets at the Palms to capture:

NHL hardware display in the Palms lobby

I see a Hart Trophy winner!

A somewhat blurry shot of me and Ryan Kesler (he was nice enough to come back to me after promising me a photo op)

Shea Weber at the poker tables

Got scolded by the casino folk to put the camera away after that one. Haha, not like I haven't heard that before.

Wonder whose hot wheels these are??

Can't wait for the good stuff tomorrow!

2010-11 Stanley Cup Champions

2011-06-16T19:46:00.000-07:00

(Author's note: This was a post that I wrote for a different blog site... but I felt it was appropriate here too)

The Stanley Cup Finals Game 7 went down last night. In true Murphy’s Law fashion, I was stuck at work, threatening people not to reveal the score as I had it all DVR’d and waiting for me once I got home.

(btw, if you’re a Canucks fan, my apologies beforehand!)

I had started off cheering for the Vancouver Canucks, cuz they had eliminated the Nashville Predators (who took my Anaheim Ducks out of the playoffs in the first round). You know, cheer for the guys who avenged your guys?

But then various Canucks players started to reveal their true colors. They were openly telling the press that certain teams had no business being in the playoffs, and they started badmouthing some of their rival players… not cool!! C’mon guys, what about sportsmanship? What about showing a little class?

So yeah. Boo to the Canucks. They have some good players, guys like Ryan Kesler, Manny Malholtra, Sami Salo… but not enough to get me to cheer for them over their snotty, arrogant players! Especially their goalie, Roberto Luongo. This guy is ARROGANT! And sometimes, you aren’t even that good, ‘Berto.

Anyway, I wasn’t completely on board with the Boston Bruins either. Boston has some MEAN fans. And some of their players are MEAN too. They showed it in this series. They’d be winning a game by more than a couple of goals, and their guys were still getting into fights and taking bad penalties. You’re winning! Why do you hafta be an asshole about it??? Eh. Of course, it would be so much better if my Ducks had made it this far. But, since they didn’t, and I watch Stanley Cup Finals hockey no matter who’s playing, I had to adopt a team.

Player of the day: the Bruins’ Tim Thomas. An American-born goaltender who’s 37 years old (That’s OLLLLDDD by hockey standards) and I don’t believe he’s ever won a cup before. I met him two years ago, in Vegas during the NHL Awards. I didn’t get an autograph or anything at the time, just kinda stood in awe and managed a hello. He seemed to be a nice guy and earned himself tons of class-points this series by not stooping to the level of the Canucks’ goalie when insulted by him before the press.

So it was. Go Timmy Thomas and his Boston Bruins.

As the series went on and Timmy played his heart out, practically carrying his team to the championship, it wasn’t hard to cheer for him. The Canucks, after winning the first two games, began imploding. Their top guys couldn’t get pucks past Timmy, and Roberto, true to his streaky form, started to fall apart.

Watching Game 7 and the final moments of the 2010-2011 hockey season, Tim Thomas sealed his team’s win with a 4-0 shutout. He won the Conn Smythe Trophy, which is given to the playoff MVP, and became the oldest player in history to do so. Also, he’s only the 2nd American-born player to do so. Watching him skate around the rink with the Stanley Cup held high above his head, I was truly happy for him.

And next week at the NHL Awards in Vegas, when I see him, I won’t be afraid to shake his hand and tell him that I couldn’t be happier to watch him win it all.

Hiller and McElhinney signing

2011-06-10T00:31:00.000-07:00

Maybe you're as Duck-deprived as I am, but I was personally elated to hear that Jonas Hiller and ex-Duck Curtis McElhinney would be doing an in-store autograph signing at a local hockey gear store (Monkey Sports in Santa Ana). Ducks in the off-season? Yes, please!

I even made sure I had coverage at work for the few hours that I would be at the signing.

As far as I could tell, the event seemed very under-promoted. Even the official Anaheim Ducks website made no mention of the appearance. I arrived an hour early to find only a handful of people in line. There were more people in the store shopping for gear than waiting for our goalies.

The padded backdrop for everyone's pictures

It was kinda nice, actually. When Hiller and McElhinney arrived, they took their seats and quickly got to work chatting and signing autographs with the fans. They posed for pictures too. Everyone was in good spirits.

Me to Hiller: How are you feeling? Getting some rest?

Hiller, with a smile: Really good, I feel much better.

Me to Curtis: How do you like Ottawa?

Curtis: It's really cold! I have to get out all of my winter clothes again!

Thanks guys, for giving us Duck fans a little something to get us through the off-season!

2011 Playoffs: Round 1 Game 2 vs Nashville Predators

2011-04-16T21:16:00.000-07:00

After Game 1's weak performance, I'm sure I wasn't the only Duck fan wanting our boys to step up in Game 2. We didn't watch them struggle so hard to get home ice only to have them drop both games at home!

Ray Emery between the pipes this time

It seems the hockey gods were on our side as the Predators took two penalties early in the first. Ducks made them pay on the 5-on-3 and again on the 5-on-4. The energy fueled fans and players alike as the Ducks turned out a much-improved first period of true playoff hockey. They took a 2-0 lead into the locker room.

That's how you do it, boys!

Lovin' the new kid line of Matt Beleskey, Brandon McMillan (not pictured), and Nick Bonino

The speed and energy of our new kid line spun the Nashville defenders in circles as they kept the puck in the offensive zone. Great shifts for the young guns.

Our big line finally showed up to play too. Corey Perry got one of the two goals in the first, and his counterparts Bobby Ryan and Ryan Getzlaf would both light the lamp in the second. With some beautiful saves by Emery, the Ducks were able to keep the Preds to only one goal for their four through the first 40 minutes of play.

Nashville rallied during the third and managed to close the goal gap to one. But Bobby sealed their fate with an empty netter in the last minute of regulation.

When you know your team can play with this level of passion and skill, you gotta believe they can turn this series around. It's even now, 1-1, and hopefully our boys are able to pull off a couple more wins during games 3 and 4 in Nashville.

2001 Playoffs: Round 1 Game 1 vs Nashville Predators

2011-04-13T23:01:00.000-07:00

It's a special time of year, folks. A time that brings out the best in fans and teams alike.

It's a time that brings the orange towels back to the Ponda

It's playoffs!!

And it feels all the more special because we didn't have a post-season last year. Our Anaheim Ducks screamed into the playoffs like a runaway train barreling down the tracks, not slowing until it had attained the 4th seed.

The 4th seed and home ice! As the final games of the season wound down, Dallas would fall out of playoff contention, both the Kings and the Coyotes would slip a notch or two from their seeds, and Chicago would conveniently squeeze into 8th.

The Ducks would face the Nashville Predators in round one.

Personally, I would have preferred a series against the Chicago Blackhawks over Nashville. Not because I think the Hawks would have been easy to beat, but rather, I don't like how well Pred's goaltender Pekka Rinne has managed to stymie our boys this season. The Preds have a rock-solid defense this season. If they manage to score a few goals early on, their defense collapses around their goaltender and they easily defend that lead to a victory.

My biggest Predator: Pekka Rinne

Frustration isn't something our boys handle well, and with the questions still surrounding our goaltending situation, this wasn't going to be an easy series.

Either way, it is what it is. No reason why we can't enjoy the post-season for as long as we're in it!

Games 1 and 2 would be played at home, and the Ponda rolled out the playoff carpet for the fans.

Eats and seats in the Playoff Spot outside the Ponda to get grub, beer, and watch ongoing playoff games before our game

Inside the Ponda, playoff towels on every seat set the atmosphere

Expectations ran high for Game 1. Our boys were on a winning streak, hopefully they could keep the momentum going. There was an exceptionally emotional opening video which gave me chills and misty eyes at the same time. Win or lose, just being at a playoff game is awesome in and of itself.

Would the big line continue to dominate?

Dan Ellis would start in net, would he be able to hold down the fort?

Well... if you were there for Game 1, I don't need to tell you how disappointing that turned out to be. Our Ducks just couldn't get it together. Passes weren't connecting, play looked sloppy and disjointed, puck possession was non-existent, and the passion... the drive... it just wasn't there.

The Preds, to give them credit, came out with guns ablazing. Delivering hard hits and putting tons of pressure on the puck, they backed our Ducks into a corner. Even the power play was nullified. The first two periods would see them putting three unanswered goals on the board.

I don't want to be one to complain about the officiating, but honestly, it didn't help. Our boys got frustrated with ticky-tack calls and non-calls, and that only led to sloppy penalties.

Ellis made some great saves in the beginning, but having no support can wear a goaltender down. I think his confidence was shaken as pucks began to get by him. After the fourth Pred goal during the third period, Ellis was pulled for Ray Emery.

Emery managed to stop the bleeding, but by the middle of the third, the Preds had pretty much stopped pushing. Teemu Selanne, bless his heart, got the Ducks on the board with about 8 minutes left in the third.

This towel-waving opportunity brought to you by Teemu Selanne

But that would be it for this game. As discouraging and frustrating as it may be, I simply cannot justify leaving before a game is over. Come on people, you're supposed to be fans, this is your team.

Hard to believe it was a sold-out crowd at the beginning of the game...

Luckily a series isn't lost with the first game.

Ducks vs Los Angeles Kings

2011-04-09T02:29:00.000-07:00

This was the Anaheim Ducks annual Fan Appreciation Game but, more importantly, it was the game that, if won in regulation, would allow the Ducks to clinch a playoff berth.

Either way, it was going to be a big game made even bigger considering the opponents were none other than hated rivals the Los Angeles Kings.

Still out with a lower body injury, Ray Emergy would sit this one out as a healthy scratch. Jonas Hiller was announced as the backup to Dan Ellis.

As exciting as it was to see Hiller, I really prayed that Ellis would be on his game tonight. Hiller did NOT look sharp during warmups

Serious expressions on the faces of our Ducks. There was a lot riding on this game

In the early minutes of the game, both teams took their time feeling one another out. With Jonathan Quick in goal for the Kings, I suspected it would be harder rather than easier to get pucks into the net.

The Kings would score first, making the score 1-0 as we entered the first intermission.

Ryan Getzlaf's bid goes wide

RPG line attempting to crash the crease and get traffic to the net

Honestly, I feel that our boys play better when they're trying to come up from behind. Call it that extra bit of motivation, they just seem to be that much hungrier.

At about the game's halfway mark, they would be rewarded.

The Ponda erupting with a goal by the great eight

Just another record set in another typical night for the Finnish Flash

The score at the end of the 2nd is 1-1. 20-minute hockey game, folks.

I wonder which section won the thunder sticks??

The tempo of the 3rd was fast and feverish. Both teams pushed themselves to break the tie. I was particularly happy with how loud the crowd was. Definitely felt like playoff atmosphere.

And then, with a little over fourteen minutes to go, the Flash decides this team isn't going to get any help reaching playoffs (Dallas just won over the Colorado Avalanche, keeping them in the race), so he took matters into his own hands.

Off an amazing feed from Saku Koivu, Selanne gets one behind a falling Quick

The Masterton line, getting work done

The crowd is on their feet, screaming. Ducks have pushed ahead 2-1. If only our boys can just hang on! Fourteen minutes have never felt so long.

Thanks to the heroics of Ellis in goal, and a defense that has had a season to finely tune itself, our boys get the job done. Ducks win 2-1 but more importantly, ensure themselves a spot in the top eight.

We're going to playoffs!!

Ducks vs Colorado Avalanche

2011-03-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

After a grueling work shift at the job that pays the bills, I was greatly looking forward to ending my night at the rink.

With the Ducks looking to nab every point possible in a tight Western Conference race, a game against the bottom-dwelling Colorado Avalanche is a potential gift. Of course then, when you remember that the Ducks have a nasty habit of losing against teams they shouldn't lose to, you kinda get that lump in your throat.

Bottom-dweller or not, Ducks are gonna have to bring their game!

The Ponda makes a doozy of a margarita!

Best part of that margarita, you can buy it in the collectible shaker and then bring back the shaker for discounted refills! Unfortunately for me, multiple margaritas make for a very buzzed blogger. Luckily, most of the pictures were salvageable!

Bobby Ryan on one of many goal opportunities tonight

Ducks in the first period were nothing to write home about. They were looking flat-footed and uninspired. The Avalanche got two past goaltender Ray Emery, taking a 2-0 lead into the locker room at the 1st intermission.

Trying to get a fire lit under his teammates, George Parros lands a few haymakers on David Koci

The Ducks probably got a good talking to by coach Carlyle because they came out with a vengeance for the second. Passes were connecting, the forechecking presence was there, and the scoring lines put on the pressure. Finally, payoff.

Anaheim Ducks GOAAAAAALLLLLL!!!

The Ducks would score three goals (a Teemu Selanne goal sandwich with a bit of Jason Blake in the middle) during the second, before the Avs would answer back with a goal of their own. The score was 3-3 going into the 2nd intermission.

Just another milestone for the Finnish Flash

3rd period and a 20-minute hockey game between the Avs and the Ducks. Cam Fowler puts the Ducks up one early on in the period, himself recording a record nine goals in the season by a rookie defenseman. Five minutes in and the Ducks are awarded a power play for an Avs' "too many men on the ice" penalty. Everyone wanted to say it, "give the puck to Selanne!"

Apparently, the Ducks were saying it too.

Third goal and HAT TRICK for Teemu!

What a season for hat tricks! I've actually been in attendance for a record number this season, two for Corey Perry, one for Lubomir Visnovsky, and now one for Teemu Selanne. It's the 22nd of his career, but his first for me.

And this guy is thinking of retiring?!?!?

Avs get one more but are unable to equalize before the period ends. Ducks snatch another two points for the playoff race.

In this tight of a race, losing is just not an option

But the man of the hour is Teemu Selanne, 1st star of the game, and 40-year-old phenom

Ducks vs Calgary Flames

2011-03-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

Even though the Anaheim Ducks' home record against the Calgary Flames at the Ponda is very favorable, you never want to take anything for granted. Especially in a Western Conference playoff race that's this tight.

The Ducks need every point they can get.

Calgary Flames goalkeeper Miikka Kiprusoff

Normally, I see this guy in goal for the Flames and I figure our Ducks' work is cut out for them. Kipper is one of the best.

But even the best have bad days.

Duck, Duck, Goalie

After only the first 6 minutes of play, the Ducks had lit the lamp three times. Ryan Getzlaf started the onslaught with a wrister top shelf, followed by Corey Perry netting one on the power play. Francois Beauchemin would finish with a slap shot from the blue line.

Not even close, Kipper. Can you see the puck right behind the goal line??

That was the end of Kipper's night. Enter backup Henrik Karlsson.

I was as elated as any other Ducks fan at this point. Heck, our boys played a hard game last night in the Kings' barn that went into OT... it was a gift that we'd jump out early with a 3-goal lead. However, I feared this would make our boys unfocused and sloppy, thinking they had the Flames pegged.

Unfortunately, I was right. It took only 20 minutes to unravel that lead. By the end of the second, the Flames had bounced back, and Karlsson had effectively kept his net clean. The score was now tied 3-3.

A Ducks game is never a Ducks game without nervous nailbiting. Seven minutes into the third period, Flames captain Jerome Iginla puts his team in the lead. Ducks spend the next 10 trying to find that equalizer. I'm sure I'm not the only fan wishing Kipper would return to the crease.

Can you believe we actually had a three-goal lead at one point in this game??

Luca Sbisa fending off Iginla

At the moment of truth, two minutes before the end of regulation, goaltender Dan Ellis is pulled for the extra attacker. Teemu Selanne, whose name must translate into "Clutch" in Finnish, tips in a Getzlaf feed.

Twice in two days, Ducks head into 4-on-4 overtime.

And again, another deja vu moment. Bobby Ryan gets tripped up in a breakaway attempt and is awarded a penalty shot.

Bobby had better luck with his penalty shot against the Red Wings' Jimmy Howard

Unfortunately, Bobby wouldn't end the game with a winner in OT. That title would go instead to Perry who has a Toni Lydman one-timer deflect off of him and under Karlsson. The Ponda erupts in yells and screams.

DUCKS WIN AGAIN IN OT!!

Probably just as relieved as us fans, the Ducks pounced on Perry in celebration

A few words from Perry in the post-game interview, as first star of the game

Ducks at Los Angeles, vs Kings

2011-03-19T22:27:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned how much I HATE watching Ducks games at the Staples Center??

Sitting hours in bumper to bumper traffic, trying to find parking on the dirty streets of LA, getting heckled by scores of ignorant Kings fans on my way to the arena... and then, even once inside the arena, there's more heckling, annoying anti-Ducks cartoons and other nonsense on the Kings' jumbotron, and drunk fans getting in my face.

Then, if we lose, multiply all that torture 10-fold.

It's just not my idea of a good time.

However, when there's a big group of Ducks fans planning to invade the Staples Center, and I can be surrounded by a lot of my fellow fans, I'm a little more open to the idea of going there for a game.

A big group of nearly 100 Ducks fans came in for this one

Of course, there are drawbacks to being in a large group like this, but there are perks too.

Included in the "package," the group got the opportunity to stand on the ice before the game. At first, I thought this to mean we'd get a chance to mill about on the ice, sit in the penalty boxes and benches, and otherwise get some good photo opportunities. Not quite. We walked out on a carpet, took a group picture, and walked back.

We did, however, catching a glimpse of our boys warming up with a rousing game of kickball

We were allowed to bring signs for our team at warmups, but apparently, Staples crew members were also allowed to tell us our signs were too big. The sign I'd made (of the same size I've always made for games) boasted "Stanley Cups: Ducks = 1, Kings = 0" was deemed "too big" and I was forced to either cut it in half or have it trashed. Not to mention others had signs even bigger than mine and were able to get them in, including some anti-Duck signs with dirty four-letter words that rhyme with "duck."

Not cool, Staples Center. Not cool.

Our seats were allllll the way up in the rafters against the concrete wall. I don't think we were heard by anyone but the people around us, but I didn't mind because I couldn't hear them.

I loved hearing the crowd roar with McMillan's goal

We screamed like crazy when rookie Brendan McMillan put us on the board first with a beautiful breakaway. Happily, we held onto the lead all the way up through the first and second periods until captain Dustin Brown got the Kings an equalizer halfway through third.

The game became a typical nailbiter as we waited to see if anyone else would score in regulation. Going into overtime, I was beginning to feel nauseous. But luckily, Corey Perry saved us all. The crowd roared, we screamed and random high-fives were shared.

It was a tremendous win for our boys, another two points for the playoff race, and an incredibly comfortable walk back to our cars.

Particularly satisfying was hearing a young boy walking with his parents, who were both clad in Kings jerseys, "Mommy, can you buy me a Ducks jersey?"

Win.

Ducks vs St. Louis Blues

2011-03-17T01:18:00.000-07:00

This one wasn't pretty, but it was two points... and we'll take it.

I'll do the post just like the game: quick and dirty.

It was the obligatory St. Patty's Day game, even though it's actually 3/16.

The Ponda ice with an eerie green glow

Goaltender Dan Ellis' new Duck-themed pads and mask came in. He was sporting them during warmups.

Apparently, Ellis is going with a zombie Duck groove

Unfortunately, he wouldn't get a chance to try out the new gear tonight. Ray Emery started.

In his first game start in over a year, Emery held up well

He faced 31 shots, and stopped all but one. Not bad at all, but his rebounds do give me ulcers.

Jason Blake lit the lamp twice. One was a fluky bounce, the other was a sweet redirect off a slapper from Lubomir Visnovsky.

Otherwise, the game was fairly flat. Our boys didn't play a full 60 minutes, but they played enough to beat the Blues.

The boys celebrate a win with Emery

The Ducks break back into the top 8

Here's hoping we can stay there!

Ducks vs Vancouver Canucks

2011-03-06T20:23:00.000-08:00

Proceeds from tonight's game against the Vancouver Canucks went to benefit the Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Choco Bear toys with autographed 3rd jerseys were sold before the game, and the advertising space along the rink boards was donated to the hospital.

Before the game, a ceremonial puck drop between Anaheim Ducks captain Ryan Getzlaf and Canucks captain Henrik Sedin

As was reported the night previously, Canucks fans had arrived in Southern California by the boatload. They had completely invaded the Staples Center for the Canucks/Kings game the night before, and planned to finish their weekend at the Ponda.

Canucks fans filling the lower bowl

I don't think I've ever seen so many Canadian team fans before!

Also in attendance, a bunch of Ducks fans dressed head to toe in orange spandex. I had first spied them sitting next to the Ducks' penalty box during the Stars/Ducks game. Obviously, they were more fitting tonight given the Canucks' infamous "Green Men," who were also here tonight.

Even more of a reason to stay out of the sin bin, you'd get heckled by these guys

Despite the charitable theme, the Canucks weren't in such a giving mood. At least not when winning is concerned. Our boys got blanked 0-3.

Maybe the Orange Men will return to see a win

Ducks vs Dallas Stars

2011-03-04T23:19:00.000-08:00

I was at this game, but without the camera. What I failed to capture was Lubomir Visnovsky's second career hat trick!! His first came when he was with the Los Angeles Kings. Back when I first started watching hockey, I watched the Kings and loudly noted that Lubo seemed to be the only player that knew what he was doing...

In any case, it was an awesome game, an awesome win, and an awesome treat for the fans to see a guy who works as hard as Lubo get his hat trick at home.

He was also awarded first star of the game, and he accepted the honor amidst tons of screaming fans. Raising his hands in the air, he skated around and broadly beamed throughout his post-game interview.

Kudos to Lubo!

Ducks vs Detroit Red Wings

2011-03-02T23:32:00.000-08:00

I have a coworker whose father's season seats are two rows behind the Anaheim Ducks bench. Earlier in the season, the coworker brought a list to work of games that were available for us to buy her father's season seats to, and I'd chosen one thinking, "Well, it'll be an awesome opportunity to get some really great pictures..."

So I bought a pair to one game.

Six months later, that game had finally arrived.

Going into this one, I wasn't too sure how I was going to feel. Our boys are fragile having tenuously broken a 5-game losing streak, missing their starting goaltender in Jonas Hiller, and having Saku Koivu still out with groin issues. The Western Conference is a veritable logjam, with less than five points separating 4th from 11th place.

And the Detroit Red Wings are hot right now. Two nights prior, they beat the pants off the Los Angeles Kings in a 7-4 contest. Ducks fans were happy to see the Kings beat, but it scared the bejeezus out of us to know we were, most likely, the Wings' next victim.

I told my seat partner, "We'll have awesome seats, but don't expect to see a win tonight." That was going to be my mindset for the game.

Holy seats, Batman!

I wonder what Teemu Selanne thinks about during the national anthem

The seats were indeed, awesome. If you've never been this close to the glass before, I can tell you that you get a real appreciation for the speed of the game at this distance. The players look huge, and the action is breathtaking. The hits sound harder and you can hear the players yell at one another on the ice. In terms of watching the game, you get to see the plays up close, but a lot of the action in the corners is lost.

Especially if you're short.

Corey Perry: "Can I tell Datsyuk he's gonna get it?"

I spent the better part of the first period just taking pictures. Our Ducks came out strong and hard, hopefully they could keep that up. For a team on the road, the Red Wings also came out hard. But then again, what else do you expect from them?

Luca Sbisa finishes a big hit

Both teams had good chances at goals, but luck and good goaltending kept pucks out of each net through the first.

Doin' work for the Ducks during Jonas Hiller's absence, Dan Ellis

Coach Carlyle reviewing plays during a TV timeout

The score was 0-0 going into the 1st intermission.

Before the second started up, I was still snapping shots of the players trickling out onto the ice. Bobby Ryan stood facing the glass, chatting with a few other players who were sitting on the bench. He caught my gaze and winked. Dan Sexton also gave me a smile as he took his seat on the bench.

At that point I'd pretty much decided, win or lose, my night had been made.

The Red Wings only goal that night, courtesy of number 13, Pavel Datsyuk

Five minutes into the second, Datsyuk breaks the stalemate on a power play. Speaking of power plays, the Wings ended up getting nine opportunities tonight to our Ducks' four. Lopsided much?

Try as they might, the Ducks couldn't find that equalizer during the next 15 minutes of play. But not for a lack of chances! Bobby, Teemu Selanne, Cam Fowler, and Corey Perry all had opportunities. Wings' goaltender Jimmy Howard came up big each time.

Captain Ryan Getzlaf in the faceoff

Go defense: Lubomir Visnovsky, Cam Fowler, and (sitting) Toni Lydman

Our defense also came up big. Despite constant pressure from the Wings (honestly, neither team had a lacking period this game), Ducks defense was good. I noticed the younger guys making offensive-minded plays. Fowler taking slap shots from the blue line, Sbisa launching a perfect cross-ice bid from Selanne towards the net, Lydman keeping distances between himself and the Wing offense small and not letting anyone get a shot lined up... it was intense.

This, folks, was playoff hockey.

Early in the third, a surprise shot from Jason Blake near the blue line goes over Howard's shoulder and into the net. Ducks tie it up, 1-1.

Blake with the equalizer

Play continued back and forth, both Howard and Dan Ellis acting the stone wall. If Ellis is trying to prove his worth to his new team, I've gotta say he's putting up a great argument.

I also have to give tremendous kudos to our penalty kill. They were completely resilient in eight of those nine Red Wing power plays, including a heart-pounding 3-on-5 and a 'too many men on the ice' Duck penalty with only 15 seconds left in regulation.

Do or die, Ducks

Talk about a heart attack. Ducks go into the 4-on-4 overtime period with only three men on the ice. Somehow, somehow, we get through that penalty intact. I notice Ryan Getzlaf dawdling with the puck in the defensive zone. The clock reads 2:55 left in overtime. C'mon boys... don't waste time!

Suddenly, he whips a perfect stretch pass out to Bobby who's leaving the neutral zone. On a breakaway, Ruslan Salei takes a hooking penalty as he gets his stick blade caught in Bobby's skate. Bobby goes down and, to the roar of the crowd, is awarded a penalty shot.

This special moment brought to you by numbers 15 and 9

Everyone had to stand for this one. Bobby's first NHL career penalty shot. I'm sure I wasn't alone, my heart pounding in my chest, watching him head down the ice towards Howard. I couldn't see exactly what was happening, but you didn't have to see. The roar of the crowd as the puck flew past Howard and into the net was all that was needed. Bobby also yelled in celebration and slammed himself into the glass right before he was mobbed by his teammates from the bench.

Ducks celebrating Bobby's penalty shot goal, winning the game

Bobby being interviewed as the game's First Star

This one would go down as Bobby's first career OT winner and only the fourth penalty shot overtime goal in club history.

A lot of screaming was done that night. That and high-fiving strangers, dancing in the stands and parking lot, and watching fans clad in red hurry from the premises.

It was beautiful. And if you were there for this game, you witnessed a little piece of Anaheim Ducks history.

Ducks vs Minnesota Wild

2011-02-26T02:11:00.000-08:00

A lot has happened between the pipes since the last game I attended! For one, check out the new goaltending tandem for the Anaheim Ducks:

Introducing, starter Dan Ellis and backup Ray Emery

Yup, THAT Dan Ellis. And yes, THAT Ray Emery.

With all due respect to former Ducks goalie Curtis McElhinney, we need someone who can stop pucks and we need him NOW. There's no timetable as to how long it will be before Jonas Hiller is ready to play again, and the Ducks are steadily losing ground in the playoff race.

Ellis flew in the night before and had maybe two practices at best with his new team on Ponda ice. Nonetheless, he would be starting in tonight's game. Needless to say, lots of Duck faithful would be very curious as to how well he'd do.

You can put a Ducks' jersey on him, but his mask still screams "Tampa Bay Lightning"

Emery remains up from the AHL just in case, but I'd much prefer to see him get more conditioning before he has to take over the net

Also back in tonight's game, new daddy Ryan Getzlaf

Pretty soon, he'll be coming to the rink just to get some rest away from the screaming baby!

Ellis came up big on the first few saves. I started to feel that maybe we'd be okay. A few things I noticed about him. Ellis is much more expressive on the ice. He talks to the defense and directs play. He looks much more comfortable in his puck handling skills. He also rallied the boys a number of times, slapping his stick on the ice for momentum. I'm hoping the team develops a chemistry with him.

I thought our offense played well. The Ducks earned their chances to pepper Wild goalie Jose Theodore.

Rookie Brandon McMillan. Keep an eye on this kid

There was no way defenseman Toni Lydman could stop the bids on net from a 2-on-1 that led to the Wild's first goal early in the first

As it became apparent that Theodore was nothing short of on fire tonight, coach Carlyle started to mix up the lines.

Theodore on "forcefield mode"

Ellis in position

The Wild held the lead for a good 25 minutes of play until finally, Bobby Ryan got one under, and behind, Theodore.

Bobby would score his 100th NHL goal tonight, tying up the game, and becoming (I believe) only the 6th Duck to break the 100-goals mark

Cam Fowler, up close and personal

In the third, the Wild would take the lead again with a little over five minutes left in regulation. As our Ducks put 30, 35, 40 shots on goal, those two points felt like they were slipping away with each passing second.

At the 18:00 mark, Francois Beauchemin netted the equalizer

Fans were treated to five minutes of overtime and, when it looked like we'd get the chance to size up Ellis in the shootout, the Wild stole it all away and brought the game to an abrupt halt. With only six seconds left, a major fumble on the part of the Ducks defense resulted in a puck behind Ellis.

Well, at least we got a point. But more importantly, I do feel that things will improve with a capable goalie between the pipes.

Bring on the Avalanche!

Trade Deadline 2011

2011-02-25T13:57:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, I got the opportunity to join a few other Pacific Division fans and share my opinions on the movers and shakers for this season's trade deadline. Big thanks to the folks over at "View From My Seats" for letting me contribute!

Please check out the collaborative post at View From My Seats

Ducks vs San Jose Sharks

2011-02-03T03:05:00.000-08:00

Nothing all too remarkable about this game... Ducks didn't show up to play until the 2nd period, after the Sharks had already put three goals on the board. Although, it didn't help matters much that the first Shark goal got past Jonas Hiller only 14 seconds into the game.

Yes, 14 seconds. It was gonna be one of those games.

You could see it too, Hiller wasn't on the ball. He looked slow and sluggish. After the game, the news was released that Hiller wasn't feeling well. Fatigue and dizziness would take him out of the next couple of games.

Luckily, backup Curtis McElhinney was able to stop the bleeding. The Ducks turned up to play, with goals from Joffrey Lupul, Cam Fowler, and Bobby Ryan bringing the Ducks within one. But bringing the equalizer just wasn't in the cards tonight. Our boys would lose this one 3-4.

I'd paid good money for great seats in the lower bowl, so at least I have a few good pictures to show for it!

Jason Blake, Luca Sbisa, and Teemu Selanne waiting for the puck drop

Corey Perry trying to get one past Sharks' netminder Antti Niemi

As center, one of Bobby Ryan's new tasks is facing off against some of the league's best centers at the faceoff dot

Curtis McElhinney, taking over for Jonas Hiller after the 3rd unanswered Shark goal in the 1st

Bobby, Perry, and Andreas Lilja

Joffrey Lupul was credited with the Ducks' first goal of the night

And Cam Fowler got the second

The next time I splurge for awesome seats, I'd really appreciate a win!

Ducks vs Montreal Canadiens

2011-01-23T06:34:00.000-08:00

In regards to this monumental game signalling the return of Saku Koivu to Montreal, I was lucky enough to write an article for All Habs. Please check it out at the following link!

http://www.allhabs.net/feature/koivu-the-heros-return-a-west-coast-perspective/

Ducks vs Edmonton Oilers

2011-01-17T19:58:00.000-08:00

Author's note: Scroll down to the end of this post for an announcement from USC Hockey

Finishing off the January homestand, I was hoping tonight's contest against the Edmonton Oilers would go better than the last time they were here.

We don't even want to think about that game.

The festivities started with a nice tribute to analyst Brian Hayward for broadcasting his 1000th game.

With Ryan Getzlaf still out, I'm liking the combination of Matt Beleskey and Corey Perry on that top line centered by Bobby Ryan.

Top line doing just fine

Energized, and hopefully determined to not repeat the heinousness that was the previous night's game (a dreadful 2-5 loss to the Phoenix Coyotes), the Ducks have good speed and forechecking tonight. They are rewarded with two goals before the end of the first, including Luca Sbisa's 2nd NHL career goal, and yet another milestone for Teemu Selanne.

Huge moment for number 8

Things get hairy in the 2nd period. There are a couple of Ducks penalties, and a bad moment for goaltender Curtis McElhinney in which he receives a cut to the face/neck off Maxim Lapierre's skate. Jonas Hiller, who was supposed to be resting for this game, is called upon to take over.

Further bids on net by the Ducks are somehow blocked and denied, but our boys keep trying. A few minutes after he'd left, McElhinney (plus stitches to the neck) returns to his net amongst cheers and whistles from the crowd.

Selanne does it again, 2nd goal of the night as he tips in a feed from Lubomir Visnovsky

Maybe the 3-0 score angered the hockey gods, or just the Edmonton Oilers. In a span of less than 30 seconds, they manage to get two past McElhinney.

Ducks go into the 2nd intermission clinging to a one-goal lead.

Corey Perry snow-shower

The 3rd period was stressful enough to give me and every other Ducks fan an ulcer. Oilers poured it on. Ducks struggled to get another goal. Both goaltenders stood on their heads. As the final minutes ticked off the clock, Ducks found themselves in a horrible 6 on 3 situation for 20 seconds. Two Ducks in the box, and an Oilers goalie on the bench, there were far too many Oilers in our end.

Moment of truth penalty kill

Somehow, SOMEHOW, Ducks pull this one from away. Kudos to Todd Marchant and Andy Sutton on our penalty kill, and to McElhinney too, for being able to stand up tall in those final moments despite the injury and despite letting in two quick goals.

With two goals and practically everyone on the Ducks bench feeding him for the hattie, Teemu Selanne got the first star of the night

For those of you hockey fans that might have seen the USC Hockey rig outside of the Ponda at the Ducks/Oilers game...

- Yes, USC has a hockey team!
- Yes, they play locally at Anaheim Ice!
- Yes, there is a game coming up, this Saturday against UCLA, 7:30pm!
- And YES, you should put on your Ducks gear and come!!!

You can use these coupons. Tell 'em Ducks54 sent ya

Casino Night 2011

2011-01-15T22:39:00.000-08:00

After the Anaheim Ducks' decisive win Wednesday night against the St. Louis Blues (and Bobby Ryan's first at-home hattie, 2nd of the season and 3rd of his NHL career), Ponda crews started the transformation of the hockey rink into the country fair-themed extravaganza that was this season's Casino Night.

Wait, they play hockey here?

With all proceeds benefiting the Orangewood Children's Foundation, Duck fans get a chance to mingle with players in a relaxed atmosphere. There's food, fun, music, and plenty of opportunities for pictures with the guys.

For anyone who wanted to go and couldn't, or if you were there and just want to relive the experience, I went to work with BabyRebel to try to capture this incredible event. Please note, the lighting hasn't been very camera-friendly at Casino Nights past, I wasn't expecting this year's to be any different!

I thought the lasso twirler was kinda cool...

The VIP Barn, which you couldn't enter unless you wore the special VIP bracelet

Live country music provided courtesy of Merchants of Moonshine

The infamous Kissing Booth. A $20 donation got you a picture with Duck players in the booth

Free rides on the ferris wheel

Tons of good eats...

... and an enticing dessert table

Kyle Chipchura mingling with fans

Teemu Selanne passed on the generic Ducks' orange plaid shirt and black cowboy hat combo opting for country-themed duds from his own closet

Cam Fowler at the roulette table

Assistant coach Mike Foligno, Andreas Lilja, and Curtis McElhinney trying their luck at the wheel

Maxim Lapierre at the blackjack table

Place your bets, boys!

Toni Lydman: "Got any chips I can borrow?"

At one point, I caught Lilja breaking into a little line dance. Unfortunately, he wouldn't repeat the performance for the camera. Nuts.

Ryan Getzlaf says he's feeling good and appreciates the time he's been able to stay home with pregnant wife Paige. "She's put me to work around the house!"

Brendan McMillan getting the royal rookie hazing treatment from Todd Marchant. He had to stand on the platform and address the crowd for a good 5-10 minutes... or until Marchant let him come down

Bobby Ryan: "Howdy"

Fowler, Jonas Hiller, and Chipchura looking for kisses at the Kissing Booth

I told the boys to smile for the camera. Joffrey Lupul responds by sucker-punching Sheldon Brookbank

Corey Perry and Matt Beleskey trying their luck at craps

Hiller keeping a low profile in the VIP Barn. Mention his invite to the All Star Game and he was nothing but smiles

Lubomir Visnovsky also in the VIP Barn

Luca Sbisa, Beleskey, and Perry entertaining fans at the Kissing Booth

Fowler posing for a picture with a fan

Saku Koivu explained he didn't realize most fans couldn't enter the VIP Barn so he spent the last 30 minutes of the night trying to "talk to as many people as possible"

Again, another fabulous night for Duck fans!

4th Annual Cut For the Kids

2011-01-12T01:52:00.000-08:00

Every year, Anaheim Ducks enforcer George Parros goes under the scissors for a good cause: he donates his season-long locks to nonprofits that benefit children with leukemia. Fans are invited to participate as well, and space at the event usually goes quickly as adults and children alike line up to donate their hair for children's wigs.

This year's event was held at the Rinks-Huntington Beach Inline

Stylists from the TONI&GUY Hairdressing Academy volunteered their time and skills to provide new do's for the donors

I'd wanted to participate in the event last year, but the job that pays the bills interfered. This year, I had the day off. I was a bit nervous about cutting off most of my hair... it had taken me a year and a half to grow it. But this was a good cause.

And doing it alongside George Parros made it all the more special.

Georgie in the stylist's chair

Ahhh! There it goes...

Sporting his new hairdo, George speaks to Kent French and Element TV

After the cutting, George signed autographs and posed for pictures with fans for a donation to the Childhood Leukemia Foundation

Consider growing your hair out to join George next season at his Cut For the Kids!

Ducks vs San Jose Sharks

2011-01-09T22:14:00.000-08:00

Two words, people: JONAS HILLER

Somebody get this boy a steak dinner!

This game, along with its two points, came courtesy of none other than our Shark Killer. Oh, and Bobby Ryan helped by scoring the game's only goal.

Needless to say, it was an incredible game, with playoff-style hockey being played by both teams for all three periods. Our Anaheim Ducks came out full blast for this one, and I'm glad they did because there were wayyyy too many Sharks fans at the Ponda for comfort.

I mean, I suspected it would be bad... a weekend game against a hated division rival whose fans are just itching to visit Southern California. Hey, I don't blame them. We've got Disneyland just down the street. What does San Jose have??

Exactly.

Sections 408 and 409 aka, "The Sardine Can"

These fans were loud as they stomped through the halls of the Ponda pregame. Chanting, "Ducks suck" and "Let's go Sharks" it was pretty annoying. We Duck fans agreed: Our boys had no choice but to win this one and send those fans back on their long bus ride to NorCal crying.

Shark sushi bento box?

To credit Ducks fans, I think we did a pretty good job cheering and keeping the momentum going for our boys. The crowd was loud and in it from the beginning. I'm sure our boys could feel it. They played very well, keeping excellent pressure on the Sharks during the first period.

Exhausted but satisfied, they went to the locker room for the first intermission with a pair of donuts on the scoreboard.

Hiller even managed to keep rookie sensation Logan Couture #39 off the board

Honestly, I was holding my breath through every one of Hiller's saves. He was on fire, catching or blocking puck after puck with his usual Swiss flair, but that doesn't mean the Sharks didn't try to challenge him. The Ducks put not nearly as many shots on the Sharks goaltender, but they were able to string together some good line rushes themselves.

Ducks' star rookie vs Sharks' star rookie

Finally, relief! Over 14 minutes into the 2nd, Bobby Ryan, with the patience of Job, wove the puck around the crease and was able to shoot it past the mess of bodies for the game's first and only goal. I'm not sure if goaltender interference could have been called, but Antti Niemi kept silent.

Ducks mobbing Bobby after his goal

I have to show my boy a little love here and say he has definitely stepped up his game in Ryan Getzlaf's absence. That's his third goal in two games. Ride that hot streak, Bobby!

The rest of the game fed off of pure adrenaline, fan frenzy, and the awesomeness that is Jonas Hiller.

The Ducks penalty kill was put to the test. Two of three were played almost entirely in the Ducks' zone, the full two minutes added to the TOI totals of all penalty killers involved. Kudos to Todd Marchant and Toni Lydman for being simply amazing.

Hiller's secret weapon: spinach instead of gatorade. j/k

As the clock wound down, the Sharks started to get desperate and take a few penalties of their own. Saku Koivu was seen down in the slot after a play, big Joe Thornton sitting on top of him and crosschecking repeatedly. Luckily, the refs saw it too.

That's right, take a seat

No goals would be scored during the two Ducks powerplays, but taking those four minutes off the clock proved fatal.

The ~~Chokes~~ Sharks failed to equalize, Shark fans bolted from the stands, and Hiller got his shutout... and first star of the game.

A fist bump from Wild Wing

Congrats, Hiller, you deserve it!

2011 Skills Showdown

2011-01-08T16:58:00.000-08:00

Following a tremendous 6-0 beatdown of the Colombus Blue Jackets, Anaheim Duck fans gathered at the Ponda the morning after for a more friendly beatdown... one of teammates at the inaugural Skills Showdown.

Lines began forming about an hour before the doors were scheduled to open for season ticket holders. The general public would be let in an hour and fifteen minutes later, after the players went through a typical practice and morning skate on the Ponda ice.

I had a hard time choosing a seat. I mean, where do you sit when you could sit ANYWHERE in the Ponda?? A glass seat seems the obvious choice, but I also wanted to be able to see all the action in every corner of the ice. Not to mention, when you want good pictures, you take into account the quality of the glass in front of you. Did I want to face the penalty boxes or the player benches?

Decisions, decisions!

Before we get into the main event, let's check out some pics from practice.

The different jersey colors represent different offensive lines and defensive pairings

Brian Hayward giving us onlookers inside info on what the plays and drills mean during practice by asking Dave Farrish the questions we all wanted to ask

Every now and then we'd see a player break off from the others to do a quick set of pushups on the ice. Apparently, if a defenseman gets scored on, he has to do pushups.

Kyle Chipchura and Paul Mara

Bobby Ryan and Corey Perry on the same offensive line, hence they are both wearing white. Although, Corey's orange socks do stand out

Luca Sbisa, Maxim Lapierre, and Teemu Selanne

A big smile from Teemu

The post-practice rundown

After practice, Ducks GM Bob Murray joined emcees Steve Carroll and Kent French for a few questions and answers

And then the real fun began.

The players were divided into two teams, captained by the eldest Ducks, Todd Marchant (White) and Teemu Selanne (Black). The teams would compete in six categories, scoring goals for various achievements. Each team also had five youth players whose skills would contribute to the scoreboard. At the end of the six events, the team with the most goals wins.

The White Team consisted of Todd Marchant, Andy Sutton, Bobby Ryan, Jason Blake, Brandon McMillan, Cam Fowler, George Parros, Joffrey Lupul, Saku Koivu, Sheldon Brookbank, Toni Lydman, and Curtis McElhinney

The Black Team consisted of Teemu Selanne, Matt Beleskey, Andreas Lilja, Corey Perry, Lubo Visnovsky, Maxim Lapierre, Paul Mara, Kyle Chipchura, Dan Sexton, Luca Sbisa, Aaron Voros, and Jonas Hiller

Tim Marchant joined in on the commentary

First event, the Break Away Relay.

In this event, team goalies would try to keep the opposing team's players from scoring on a breakaway in sets of three players, two attempts each. Each goal would obviously count as a goal for that team.

Chippy, Lappy, and Lilja for the Black Team

McElhinney prepares himself for the onslaught

Lydman and McMillan for the White Team

Sbisa and Beleskey for the Black Team

Voros, Parros, and Brookbank for the White Team

Sexton...

... Selanne and Perry for the Black Team

And finally, Lupul, Bobby, and Fowler for the White Team

The only guys who managed to score were Lupul and Voros for the White Team, and Sbisa for the Black. Nice job, defensemen!

Hazy interviewing White Team scorers Voros and Lupul.
Voros: Well, I missed on my first attempt. But then I asked myself, 'What would Todd Marchant do?'
Lupul: I have a lot of moves I can beat Jonas Hiller with!

I'm glad the boys were having just as much fun with this as we were!

Second event, the Power Play.

Teams would attack the crease with three "forwards" (a forward could also be a defenseman) versus one opposing defenseman and a goalie to see how many goals could be scored in 60 seconds.

The first round pitted Team White's Lydman and McElhinney against Selanne, Chippy, and Sexton. Team Black followed with Lilja and Hiller defending against Marchant, Koivu, and Sutton.

The second round saw Team White's Fowler and McElhinney defend against Perry, Sbisa, and Mara. Team Black finished with Lilja (again) and Hiller against Voros, Blake, and Parros.

Hiller and Lilja, the defending duo

Each threesome got two goals in their one-minute windows. In other words, a tie. Personally, I felt kinda bad for the goalies at this point!

Third event, the Control Relay.

With this one, cones were set up on the ice. Players had to deftly skate the puck around the cones. Three players from each team would do a relay, followed up by a 1-on-1 challenge between two final players. Captains probably chose their representative players based on a mixture of speed, puck-handling, and old-fashioned hazing.

Black's relay team of Visnovsky, Sexton, and Beleskey

Unfortunately, Lubo lost the puck! I believe that might have been a disqualification for Team Black.

White's WINNING relay team of Fowler, McMillan, and Voros

For the 1-on-1, it was the Black Team's revenge as Chippy beat out Lydman.

Fourth event, the Fastest Skater.

Plain and simple, who can do a lap around the Ponda ice the fastest? Team captains chose two players each. Their choices made me suspect a royal rookie hazing here!

- Sbisa: 14.478 seconds
- Sexton: 14.011 seconds (to his credit, Sexton got a bad start)
- Fowler: 13.945 seconds
- McMillan: 14.237 seconds

Fowler, waiting for the whistle before his WINNING sprint

Fowler had to catch his breath afterwards: "Marchant chose me for all the skating competitions, so I'm pretty tired!"

Fifth event, Shooting Accuracy.

Each goal net was fitted with four styrofoam targets, one in each corner. Players had eight shots to get as many targets as possible. The one who could get the most targets in the least number of shots won.

Blake giving Bobby and Lupul accuracy tips

Here's how they did. For Team Black,

Lappy got 2 with 8 shots

Perry got 4 with 5 shots

And Selanne got 4 with 6 shots

For Team White,

Lupul got 1 with 8 shots

Bobby got 4 with 6 shots

But Georgie got all 4 with 4 shots! He was rushed by his Team White teammates and treated to a rousing standing ovation by the crowd at the Ponda

Sixth event, Hardest Shot.

Three players from each team would skate to the puck, wind up, and fire their hardest slapshots. Two tries each. Fastest shot into the net wins.

Sutton's hardest shot clocked in second place at 99.8mph

Sbisa's wasn't too shabby either at 99.6mph for third

But the winner was Paul Mara with 100.7mph!

Final score, 14 to 12 Black

In the end, Team Black would come up the ultimate champion. They would take home the prize and the locker room bragging rights. Personally, I think we all went home as winners. It was a fun event that I hope the Ducks decide to make an annual occurrence.

Selanne, Team Black captain, being awarded the Skills Showdown trophy: a big porcelain pig in overalls (??)

Group shot!

Next up, take down the guppies Sunday night!

Ducks vs Nashville Predators

2011-01-05T22:57:00.000-08:00

There's one thing I never leave for an Anaheim Ducks game without: BabyRebel. Well, there's tickets too, but I have actually forgotten the tickets once.

But my camera? Never. Unfortunately, digital cameras need batteries and memory cards to do their jobs... and those, I have forgotten on multiple occasions.

Tonight's contest against the Nashville Predators turned out to be another of those occasions. Bah. So this post will be a short one, especially since the Ducks fell victim to a hot goaltender and a lack of offensive fortitude.

To their credit, I thought our boys started off well enough. There were chances at the net in the first period. Skating seemed decent, and we outshot the opponent 15-5. The Pred's first goal was a garbage goal, and had to be reviewed by the Toronto War Room before it was deemed good.

Of course, Pekka Rinne was an absolute monster. And, as the second period wound down with another tally for the Preds and none for the Ducks despite being outshot again, I think frustration and bad juju got our boys down.

The third period started off straight out sad. Ducks lost their ability to move their feet and spent way too much time and energy in the defensive zone. Finally energized by a goal from Saku Koivu nearly 12 minutes into the 3rd, they tried to come back for an equalizer.

Personally, I think it was a mistake to pull Jonas Hiller with still over a minute left on the clock, but coaching thought otherwise. The empty netter was imminent. And, to rub salt in an already ugly wound, it happened twice. The final tally was tossed haphazardly down the ice from behind the Preds goal to land squarely in ours with 0.2 seconds left on the clock.

Ugh.

On the bright side, this game saw the debut of new acquisition Maxim LaPierre. The gritty center was traded from the Canadiens in exchange for defenseman Brett Festerling and a pick. I liked what I saw from him. Speed, aggression, and a willingness to play in the dirty areas in front of the crease. I think he will fit in well here.

Let's hope the rest of the team is ready to show him a reason to love his new jersey.

Ducks vs Florida Panthers

2010-12-01T23:42:00.000-08:00

Not just another day at the office for George

This was a great game. Period.

And not because there were big names involved or because it was a special giveaway night at the Ponda. Most people might have passed on tonight's game because it was a random Wednesday night, against a random East Conference team that doesn't generate a huge following.

But for those Duck faithful who came out, we were treated to a fun, raucous game capped off with a Ducks win. You really had to be there.

Man of the hour, George Parros, grinning big in his new role of goal scorer

The Ducks enforcer scored two goals in tonight's contest, with a tussle against Darcy Hordichuk thrown in between

Padded with some nice goals from our big line, we Duck fans didn't have to sweat it out too badly. I mean, if anyone knows how quickly and painfully a lead can be lost, it's Duck fans.

High-fives at the bench after Getzlaf's goal

But with the last 15 minutes or so of the game, the minimal crowd at the Ponda got louder and louder. People screamed every time Parros took the ice. Murmurs of "Hatty" and "One more for Georgie" buzzed through the air.

Best of all, you could tell the big man and everyone on the Ducks bench were absolutely loving it. So glad Georgie could do this one at home, where the home fans could really make it special for him.

Bobby Ryan sealed the deal with an empty netter dug out from underneath the Panther defender

In the end, there would be no hatty for George, but there would be two points for the Ducks.

The boys celebrate the victory with Jonas Hiller

Ducks at Phoenix, vs Coyotes

2010-11-28T02:14:00.001-08:00

I wasn't at this game (wish I was!), but it deserves a post because:
- it marks the end of a 6-game Ducks losing streak
- it marks the end of a 7-game Yotes winning streak

And, most importantly, it marks Bobby's second NHL career hat trick!!!

Here's what he had to say to Arizona reporters after the game:

Ducks gave the Yotes a sound beating, 6-4. Come back home and show the Kings similar treatment, Ducks!

Ducks vs Edmonton Oilers

2010-11-22T01:06:00.000-08:00

When a team on a losing streak comes into town, you want to think, "Oh hey, easy two points for us," right? Well, when your team is the Anaheim Ducks, it isn't that easy.

Remember what happened less than a month ago against the New Jersey Devils?

Or last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs??

Unfortunately yeah, I remember those too. I was at both of those games and it stunk. Nevertheless, you hope your boys remember those stinkers just as well, and you hope they try their hardest not to let history repeat itself.

And you look at the little things to make you happy, like Dan Sexton being recalled from the minors

Sexton: "Don't get all up in mah grill, yo."

The first period started well enough. Ducks outshot the Oilers with 19 shots on goal compared to their 4. And they made good plays. Ducks also got power play chances. Teemu Selanne was scratched thanks to groin issues, otherwise I'm pretty certain we would have converted on at least one of those opportunities.

What nobody counted on was the hot goalie. Oilers' Devan Dubnyk frustrated my Ducks to no end... and filled my camera with shots like these:

Dubnyk blocking a puck with his elbow

Dubnyk blocking a redirect from Jason Blake

Dubnyk pouncing on a puck just outside the blue paint

And another save (see the puck?)...

And another (see the puck?)...

Dubnyk left no rebounds on many of his saves. Our boys had some of the best goal attempts I've seen in a while, so it wasn't as if they played poorly. There were plenty of players left sniffing for stray biscuits after many of those attempts, but they came up empty. Honestly, I think it took the wind out of our boys' sails. It certainly took something out of mine. And it raised the confidence of the Oilers.

They would take the lead with two goals in the first half of the second.

In the second half, Ducks got a lucky bounce when Theo Peckham received a penalty for delay of game. The puck actually flew through a camera hole which, in my opinion, isn't technically over the glass. But hey, we'll take it.

No more than eight seconds into the ensuing power play, Bobby Ryan would finally get one past Dubnyk

And 22 seconds after that, Saku Koivu would tie it up.

Unfortunately, there would be no further Duck goals. At least, not into the Oiler net. Corey Perry's empty-netter crossed 200 feet to land squarely into the opposite net. Some would say it was the icing on the cake, finishing off a completely awful third period. The Ducks had checked out. No more urgency, no more brilliant shot attempts on goal, not even in the final minute after Jonas Hiller had been pulled for the extra attacker.

Me, I'm glad that ex-Duck Ryan Whitney's close-range empty net bid missed the net, which prompted an energized round of "Whitney sucks" from a group of raucous fans in the section next to me. It was pretty funny. At least we could be reminded that we got Lubomir Visnovsky from the Oilers for that guy.

It's the little things, people. I'm getting used to finding silver linings.

At least Andy Sutton is back...

Let's file this one with the others under F for "forget about it."

Ducks vs Pittsburgh Penguins

2010-11-05T22:14:00.000-07:00

At least for tonight, I certainly hoped so!

I understand that the 2009 Stanley Cup champions, the Pittsburgh Penguins, would be playing only one West Coast game this season. Unfortunately for Duck fans, it was at our Ponda.

Not that we don't appreciate having Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in our building, quite the contrary. Personally, I was looking forward to seeing Malkin on the ice live, as he had suffered an injury prior to last season's contest and didn't swim with the rest of the Pens at the Ponda. But since we'd be the only West Coast stop on the itinerary, every friggin' Penguin fan in California showed up at the game.

Evgeni Malkin, one half of Pittsburgh's dynamic duo

Lubomir Visnovsky playfully teasing fans during warmups

I honestly believe we Duck fans were outnumbered. It definitely sounded like it; the cheering post-Pen goal seemed to be much louder than the cheering post-Duck goal.

Thankfully, there were fewer Pen goals than Duck goals.

On the bright side, our boys showed up ready to rock. They gave us something to cheer for, we could be damn proud of the team that took the ice that night.

Corey Perry trying to deflect a shot past goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury

With the first period ending with zeros on the scoreboard and SOG slightly favoring the Ducks (7-5), you could feel the tension in the air. I knew that whoever scored that first goal was going to blow this game wide open for his team.

Who else would that player be but Bobby Ryan?

Opening the floodgates, Bobby's goal was followed by one from Ryan Getzlaf and one more from Saku Koivu before the end of the second.

The boys celebrate after Getzy's goal

Saku ended a scoring drought after having started the season with two goals in as many games

Teemu Selanne assisted on Saku's goal

Non-expert game observations:
- It's good to see Cam Fowler back out there again. A testament to his skills, we could say he's one of our top defensemen. Although, that's not exactly a compliment to our other defensemen...
- The game was a very physical one overall, but Bobby in particular dished out some major hits. Check out this one for the highlight reel. The clip was shown repeatedly on the jumbotron, and we fans ate it up.

- This was Teemu Selanne's 1200th NHL game. The Finnish Flash looked spectacular, doing everything except getting a goal. Personally, I would have loved to see his efforts rewarded.
- I was also hoping for more rookie magic. Nick Bonino and Kyle Palmieri were back out on their line with veteran Todd Marchant.

- I've always liked Palmieri and was excited to see him pot his first NHL goal in the previous Ducks game. It would have been nice to see him get his second before Matt Beleskey and Dan Sexton come back from IR.
- Jonas Hiller was sensational tonight. He left a number of rebounds, but his mates were good about cleaning those up. I still believe we rely a little too heavily on Hiller night after night, but as long as he's still looking strong out there, hopefully we have time to improve.

Sidney Crosby, the other half of that dynamic duo

Pens would get on the board twice at the hands of Captain Sid, but our Ducks clung to their lead through the third period. There was so much energy in that final period. Players pushed themselves to the limit, fans held their breath between bouts of screaming.

Heck, it was like playoff hockey! Our boys fought hard and they EARNED their win, the first consecutive win this season. And it was worth being there for every thrilling moment.

Ducks celebrate their hard-fought win with Jonas Hiller

Let's get number three, boys, this Sunday against the Nashville Predators.

Ducks vs New Jersey Devils

2010-10-31T00:13:00.000-07:00

As a hockey fan in general, it’s always fun to have an Eastern Conference visitor. You get to see star players that you might not have ever seen live on the ice before, and may not see again for some time. You also feel a little less pressure knowing that two points are up for grabs but, if you don’t get them, they aren’t falling into the hands of division rivals.

Let’s also not forget the surprising fan showing that almost always presents itself at the Ponda. Look at all those Devils’ jerseys

Myself, I was thrilled to have an opportunity to see "winningest" goaltender Martin Brodeur. Not exactly a spring chicken anymore, Brodeur might possibly be hanging up the skates soon. I wanted to be sure to get some good shots of him beforehand.

Almost as if he knew what I was up to, Brodeur gave me some beauties

Zack Parise didn’t disappoint either

2010 Olympic Team USA captain Jamie Langenbrunner would tally a goal that I’m sure Hiller would pay to have back

Going into this game, I was hoping our boys would be able to steal two points against our struggling visitor. The Devils are going through their second worst start in franchise history... perhaps they’d gift wrap a few for us? After our Ducks had finished their 10-day road trip with an incredible win in Dallas (5-2, with goals going to Teemu Selanne, George Parros, Corey Perry, and two for Bobby Ryan), I thought we were playing much better now than when we’d started.

Well, considering how bad we were at the beginning of the season, I suppose that’s not saying much. It also doesn’t help that the Ducks are riddled with injuries. Andy Sutton is still out, Cam Fowler was a healthy scratch, and Dan Sexton and Matt Beleskey would probably be out another couple of games.

Still, one can hope.

In Beleskey’s absence, Aaron Voros played alongside Getzlaf and Perry and had a number of excellent scoring chances

I wasn’t particularly thrilled with how our boys played the first half of the game. They seemed sort of slow and sluggish... why do I feel like I’ve said this before?

With all of the penalties the Ducks get, prime penalty killer Todd Marchant is worth his weight in gold

Coach Carlyle has also been putting Bobby on the penalty kill. An interesting idea, I must admit I like how it’s turning out. Bobby has an aggressive style on the pk, often getting his stick in the way of passing lanes. I just wouldn’t want him out there so much on the pk that he has no energy to generate goals.

Bobby’s pass through the crease just misses connecting with Selanne

In the second half of the game, the Ducks came alive and we actually got to see some good play.

Parros putting his own pressure on the Devs

Andreas Lilja and Toni Lydman helping Hiller keep his crease clear

I do like what I see with our newest veteran D-men. Lilja and Lydman appear to be steady, dependable guys on the ice, and I’m sure they have plenty of experience to share with our rookies in the locker room.

Jason Blake celebrating his goal, and the Ducks’ only tally

Peppering Brodeur with shots didn’t do the trick (SOG: 28-27, Ducks), the veteran netminder came up big... with a little help from his posts. And the Devils were able to slip their own couple of goals behind Hiller (Langenbrunner and Patrik Elias). The Ducks fought hard for over 10 minutes to net that equalizer, but would inevitably fall 1-2 to the Devils. On the bright side, we were able to keep salary cap buster Ilya Kovalchuk off the board too.

Ducks top RPG line was effectively kept quiet

I’m trying to believe that there is a reason why Carlyle won’t start with or keep Bobby on that top line with Getz and Pears. He started off on the second line with Teemu and Saku Koivu, and was bumped up for the final minutes of desperation. Is it that he doesn’t want to have the RPG line together? Is he taking money on the side? Is he afraid they’ll lose their potency like the way I fear caffeine tolerance from drinking too much recreational coffee? ???

Here’s hoping our boys will fare better in their contest at San Jose tonight.

It was nice seeing you, Brodeur, but you don’t have to bring yourself and your winningest ways back here anytime soon!

Rinks Tour - Roller vs Ice Hockey

2010-10-20T19:58:00.000-07:00

It was a gloomy day in Irvine, but grey clouds and a bleary sky couldn't keep Ducks fans away from the 949 Roller Hockey Center. The Rinks Tour Speaker Series was something that the Anaheim Ducks started last season. Featuring Ducks players, the tour travels to various local hockey inline and ice rinks, giving hockey youth an opportunity to listen to players discuss various hockey topics, followed by a Q&A session, and photograph/autograph opportunity.

I don't play hockey, but I wasn't alone as a hockey fan just wanting to hear what Bobby Ryan and Kyle Chipchura had to say.

Waiting for the boys to arrive

Yay

Bobby realizing his mic doesn't work

Steve Carroll mediating and asking questions

(Writer's note: dialogue is grossly approximated. I didn't have a recorder to allow me to transcribe.)

Q: When did you start playing hockey?
Bobby: As soon as I could walk, age three-and-a-half.
Chippy: Four.

Chippy talked about the differences between playing hockey in Montreal, where hockey is a religion, and Southern California

I've said it before, and I'll say it agagin. Most people in SoCali wouldn't recognize a hockey puck if they saw one.

Q: Who's the hardest goalie to score on?
Chippy: Martin Brodeur

Bobby: Brodeur is hard, but I've scored on him. Luongo for me.
Fan: And you got the game-winning goal on him last night!

After the session, fans could get pictures and autographs

Stay tuned to the Ducks official website for more information on future Rinks Tour stops: http://ducks.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=540335

Ducks vs Vancouver Canucks, home opener

2010-10-14T02:29:00.000-07:00

Let's be completely honest here. Considering the Ducks' rough start to the season, going 0-3 thus far, I wasn't too sure if I wanted to see our boys get their butts handed to them on home ice. Especially not after all of the pomp and circumstance that goes into the pregame Red Carpet Ceremony.

I remember last season's home opener, getting all pumped up during the Red Carpet Ceremony, only to watch the Ducks humiliatingly drop that game to the San Jose Sharks.

But, a true fan sticks with their team, even in the worst of times. Especially in the worst of times.

So I drove out to cheer on my boys as they walked the red carpet. I had my camera, but didn't bring anything for anyone to sign. I doled out high-fives and fist-knocks instead.

The crowd is ready to make their Ducks feel like movie stars

One thing I definitely appreciated this year, the weather was sunny yet on the cooler side of summer. Last year, we melted like snowballs in hell. I can only imagine how uncomfortable the players were in their ties and three-piece suits.

The first to address the crowd, George Parros

A DJ from a local country music radio station helped Kent French emcee the event.

Parros signing autographs

Next up, Todd Marchant

Marchant signing autographs

Jason Blake

Lookin' sharp, Matt Beleskey and Bobby Ryan

Somebody hand Bobby a pair of those free Ducks sunglasses

Lubomir Visnovsky

Corey Perry

Yay, Dan Sexton would be playing tonight! He said he was excited to walk his first red carpet

Luca Sbisa was also going to get his chance to play tonight

DJ: "So, I gotta ask ya, who are you wearing?"
Luca: "Gap!" (he was just kidding)

Brendan Mikkleson

Mikkleson signing autographs

Alternate captain Saku Koivu

Rookie Cam Fowler made an entrance, driving one of Teemu Selanne's toys, dressed up in a chafeur's cap. Teemu and Ryan Getzlaf rode in the back

Fowler took the veterans' hazing in stride

Fowler approaching a crowd eager for his autograph

Getzy signing autographs

Making a fan's day never seems to get old for Teemu Selanne

Healthy scratches, but still good sports, Brett Festerling and Ryan Carter

Los Tres Guapos, Jonas Hiller, Paul Mara, and Sheldon Brookbank

Stating that his long hair bothered him under his mask, Hiller donned a shorter style for the home opener

Sheldon Brookbank signing autographs

Last, but not least, the other masked man, Curtis McElhinney

McElhinney signing autographs

As for the game, things started off rocky. Ducks took an early lead with a bid by Getzlaf less than three minutes into the first. But hearts would sink as our boys gave up two goals in 17 seconds less than two minutes later.

Was this the same disjointed team that had miserably lost the first three games of the season?

Towards the middle of the game, guys started showing up... and it was glorious!

Our big line reaffirmed their place as one of the top lines in the NHL

The equalizing goal (by Corey Perry) and the game winner (by Bobby Ryan) were beautiful displays of perfect passes and timing. THIS is what this team could do when they play like we know they can. Every Duck fan left that game with the thought that maybe the season wasn't looking so long after all.

More game observations: (again, I'm no expert, these are just casual opinions!)

- Looks like our team consists of more guys than just Saku Koivu and Jonas Hiller. Getzlaf earned four points in this game, including his one goal. Each member of the RPG line got a goal, as did Selanne.

- With Bobby's first goal of the season, I get to fire up the ole Bobby Ryan goal tracker in the sidebar. What'll it be this season, Bobby? 40 goals? 50?

- I don't know why Sexton gets scratched for so many games. The guy has speed and a good shot, why not give him more opportunities to play? He had a number of goal chances during this game, I want to see more of him.

- Luca Sbisa stepped up. I have to admit, I haven't been too impressed by what I've seen by him so far. Tonight, he delivered an excellent hip check, made his presence known, and had good anticipation of puck placement.

- As always, I continue to be impressed by Cam Fowler. How is it that an 18-year-old rookie skates and sees the ice like someone much older and experienced? He is so poised and calm under pressure. Made a few honest mistakes, but otherwise, incredible for a 2010 draftee.

- Hiller was a tad shaky at first, looking like his reactions were maybe half a second too slow. But he picked things up when the rest of the team arrived, and stayed strong through the end.

- A much better SOG disparity this time. For a brief second, I believe Ducks actually outshot the Canucks. Briefly.

Looking forward to seeing much more of Perry in the opposition's net

Goooo Ducks!!!

Meet the Team 2010

2010-10-11T01:35:00.000-07:00

The theme for this season's "Meet the Team" event was Tuesday Fight Night.

It was advertised as an opportunity to challenge your favorite Ducks players to a game of wii boxing, with cocktails and dinner at the Bluewater Grill as the background. At first, I wasn't too sure about attending the event. I mean, the price tag wasn't small (but it went to charity), and if the theme was going to be videogames, how much time would you really get to talk to the players?

I was doubtful but in the end, I'm so glad I went!

As we entered, staffers for the Anaheim Ducks Foundation gave VIP guests special wristbands and asked us if we wanted to enter our names to challenge a Duck. I shrugged. Never played the game before, but hey, whatever. I wrote my name on a ticket, dropped it into the box, and forgot about it.

Special prizes and opportunities up for silent auction

There were elegant spreads of food set up inside the restaurant including an all-inclusive salad bar, seafood bar with oyster shooters and jumbo shrimp cocktail, and a drink bar with a listing of complementary spirits. Towards the back of the restaurant, a set up of four television screens with wii consoles was roped off within a makeshift boxing ring.

Ice girls pose for a group shot

The players clustered in the very rear of the restaurant, in a VIP area. Fans gathered here to talk to the players, take pictures, and get autographs. There was another television setup back here too, with a UFC game that the boys were challenging each other to.

I whipped out my camera and went to work.

Matt Beleskey, Corey Perry, and Bobby Ryan (who wasn't paying attention)

Troy Bodie and Kyle Chipchura trying to wrestle each other while Brendan Mikkleson, Ryan Carter, and Cam Fowler watch

Dan Sexton and Curtis McElhinney

After about an hour of mingling, Kent French started the night up with introductions and a brief rundown of how the night was going to go in regards to the wii boxing.

Frenchie explaining the rules

George Parros and UFC champ Tito Ortiz would start the festivities off with a one-on-one round

The match would end as a draw

The rest of the matches would be done tournament style, with various Duck players challenging guests whose names were being drawn from the box. Winners of each match in the first round would go one to challenge each other in the second round, and so on until an ultimate champion was crowned.

Four Ducks players (Bobby Ryan, Teemu Selanne, George Parros, and Ryan Getzlaf) would not fight until the third round, when matches against them would be auctioned off to the highest bidder. Winners of these rounds would play winners going into the fourth round.

I froze when I heard my name called, and I waited to hear which Duck player I'd be fighting. Luca Sbisa. I'd just spoken to Luca earlier that night, when I showed him his rookie card. I went up to the "ring" and got a crash course on how to use the wii controllers.

Luca: Hey, I thought you said you don't play.
Me: I don't. This will be my first time!

It was a valiant fight, but in the end, I took down Sbisa!

Dan Sexton's fists were a blur as he pummeled his opponent

I went to grab some food before the second round started. The players were talkative, it seems the game environment brought everyone out of their shells. Bobby told me he was going to be an auctioned fight even though he had no idea how to play the game; Lubomir Visnovksy explained that he wasn't a video game kind of guy, "If I have spare time, I want to go outside or do something not in front of the tv!"; and Curtis McElhinney agreed with me that he missed the days of two-button video game controllers.

My second round opponent was none other than Kyle Chipchura who, according to the guys, practices this game at home

He beat me. Afterwards, he explained what the stats on the finishing screen meant. He pointed out that I actually threw 120-something punches and landed more of them than he had on me, "but somehow I won anyway," he said. "My punches were probably just taps," I laughed.

Round 2 also matched up goalies Jonas Hiller and Curtis "2-button" McElhinney

Hiller trying to land some big hits, but inevitably losing to McElhinney

Next came the auctioned fights.

Bobby Ryan vs his highest bidder

George Parros vs his highest bidder

Ryan Getzlaf lost to his highest bidder...

... as did Teemu Selanne

Andy Sutton, who fought and won against Aaron Voros, had to be given a towel for breaking more than just a little sweat. "I'll never be able to wear these pants again," he remarked

Bobby Ryan vs Kyle Chipchura

In the end, Chipchura came up the ultimate champion. But I think everyone who attended this amazing event came up a winner. All of the guys looked like they had a great time. I can't speak for every guest, but it was definitely a unique way to hang out with your favorite Duck players. Kudos to the Anaheim Ducks Foundation for a smashing success!

At least I can say I lost to the champ!

Bobby Ryan OC Register Meet & Greet

2010-10-02T21:54:00.000-07:00

This past Wednesday, winger/center/wherever-they-need-an-extra-guy Bobby Ryan treated a lucky group of OC Register Insiders and guests to a 30-minute Q&A and Meet & Greet session. If you didn't get to go, you can watch the interview below (provided courtesy of my other half, who went while I was at work).

Part 1:

Part 2:

Face-Off Fest 2010

2010-09-30T17:44:00.000-07:00

Before the puck is dropped for the first NHL regular season game, season ticket holders gathered at the Ponda for the annual Face-Off Fest. There's free food to eat, games to play, locker room tours to take, discounted Ducks memorabilia to buy, Ponda ice to skate on and, what's probably the highlight for most fans, opportunities to meet and get autographs with the players.

I'm not a season ticket holder (maybe someday I'll be able to afford it!), but I have wonderful friends who were able to score a pair of tickets for me and my other half. By the way, no locker room tour for me this year, but if you're interested in pictures, I took some last year.

There were a few guys I was looking forward to talking with and getting autographs from. Both Danny Syvret and Brett Festerling were put on waivers that morning and would not be attending that evening's festivities. I wanted to be sure I got a chance to talk to Bobby Ryan, Saku Koivu, Curtis McElhinney, Luca Sbisa, and newcomer Andy Sutton. Maybe there would be enough time for Ryan Getzlaf too.

There's a strategy to standing in these lines. If I waited in Teemu Selanne's line, chances are I wouldn't be able to see anyone else. Selanne is almost always the most popular player every year, and especially this year, as it could be his last. We started off in Bobby's line and, considering how long it stayed throughout the entire event, I'm glad we got there early!

Brendan Mikkleson and Joffrey Lupul heading to their tent for autograph signing

Kyle Chipchura and Matt Beleskey signing autographs

Rookie Maxime Macenauer, who was showing some promise by the end of this season's training camp

I'm happy to hear that Maxime might be one of the first rookies called back up should there be a need for him on the roster during the regular season. If anything, the kid has good energy and grit.

Bobby Ryan and Maxime Macenauer

I had a few items to give Bobby, including a copy of a picture I'd taken of him stealing the puck from a fallen Corey Perry at training camp. He laughed as he took it, "That one will be going up in the locker room!"

Lubomir Visnovsky and Curtis McElhinney

Saku Koivu and fellow countryman Toni Lydman

This was probably the first time Ducks fans got a chance to see Lydman as he's been out of training camp with vision issues. The Ducks D could use a lot of work, and I'm sure I'm not the only one hoping Lydman turns out to be a valuable asset.

Ryan Getzlaf signing photographs

Troy Bodie and Andy Sutton

For a big bruiser of a guy, Sutton was incredibly gracious and sweet to the kids that came up to him for autographs. He beamed as I told him I felt it was fitting he'd wear #25 after Chris Pronger.

I got to see the players I was hoping to see and talk to some of my Ducks friends, many of which I haven't seen since last season. It's been a long summer! And, I picked up a Jiggy-signed puck for 10 bucks. Not bad!

Ducks vs San Jose Sharks, preseason

2010-09-24T01:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks to last-minute tickets from my friend J, I was able to attend my Ducks first preseason game against the San Jose ~~Chokes~~ Sharks. (Sorry, just a little trash talk there!)

We could only watch the 2nd period and the first half of the 3rd, but we were treated to four Duck goals and enough line chemistry to leave happy!

Again, it's a preseason game, and we had big names on the ice. Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, and Jonas Hiller had a lot to do with the 5-2 win. Hiller stopped all 19 of the shots he faced in the first half of the game. Ex-Sharks prospect Timo Pielmeier also did well, finishing the game by stopping all but 2 of his 21 shots. I'm not sure if the Sharks were rookie-heavy on this game roster, but I did notice scorers Joe Thornton, Devin Setoguchi, and Torey Mitchell out there. So there wasn't a complete imbalance of talent!

Perry and Lilja battle along the boards as Antero Niittymaki watches.

I was very curious to see how Niittymaki would do in the Sharks net. Having let perennial goaltender Evgeni Nabokov go in the offseason, Sharks picked up Niittymaki and Anti Niemi. Impressive on paper, but not so much in the net, Niittymaki would let in 4 of the 12 shots he faced.

Parros, Getzlaf, and Perry wore the As that night.

Matt Beleskey and Corey Perry, two-thirds of an awesome scoring line.

I was so happy to see Beleskey on the top line again with Perry and Getzlaf. I loved this line combination last season, and really believe Beleskey should stay there. He has the grit and the drive to crowd the crease and battle for pucks in the corners--an effective compliment to the "twins."

How strange yet somewhat familiar, seeing #25 up there for the Ducks.

I had hoped to see more of Andy Sutton's performance on the ice, although I have to admit that seeing his #25 up on the penalty board made me smile.

Also curious about how Danny Syvret would do (I've liked his play so far in training camp), I was happy to see him combine good defense and a willingness to shoot the puck, even though his goal during the game fortuitously knocked in off the back of a Shark skate.

The boys congratulate Syvret on his first preseason Duck goal.

Getzlaf would go on to score off a Beleskey assist, 18 seconds after Syvret's goal.

Syvret giving Luca Sbisa a few d-man pointers.

Sbisa and 2010 draftee Cam Fowler both played in this game too, having also played in last night's contest against the Phoenix Coyotes. Fowler did well, keeping a calm presence much beyond his years. He got his second assist in as many games. I thought Sbisa was a bit soft, but maybe he was just tired?

Big Joe Thornton, sitting in the sin bin and thinking about what he'd done (clumsily tripping over Pielmeier in the crease and earning himself a goaltender interference call).

It will be interesting to see who makes it out of camp for a spot on the starting roster and who gets sent back down to the minors or juniors. After last season's slow start, I'm hoping we can put together a much better product right out of the gate. This was a great comeback game for our Ducks going into their preseason roadtrip. Yes, just a preseason game, but it sure does feel nice to win!

Ducks vs Phoenix Coyotes, preseason opener

2010-09-22T11:25:00.000-07:00

What a sight for sore eyes! The Ponda!

There was a feeling of calm familiarity as I walked across the North Ponda Parking Lot. In the distance, an old friend. I was home!

I know I wasn't the only Duck fan anticipating the return to the Ponda for Wednesday night's preseason opener against the Phoenix Coyotes. The offseason was much too long for us, we were more than ready for our hockey fix, even if only a preseason game.

Preseason games aren't about winning and losing. They are an opportunity for rookies and new acquisitions to prove to their new teams that they belong on the opening night roster. Coaches get a chance to see the players in action, to try out different lines of forwards, different defense pairings, and to test what works and what doesn't. The preseason is also an opportunity for the players to get a feel for each other, to develop the chemistry and communication necessary to make them formidable competitors once the season actually starts and the games count.

Notables like Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, Teemu Selanne, Saku Koivu, and Jonas Hiller wouldn't be playing tonight, but would be stationed at various areas of the Ponda to mingle with fans. Personally, I love that they do this! It's so amusing to watch how ticket holders will order their pizzas and beers without even recognizing the young man behind the counter without his game jersey.

The diehard fans know who those nicely-dressed boys are and we made a point of taking advantage of their accessibility before the game.

Hiller signing autographs and selling Kids Club kits.

Troy Bodie serving chicken.

Fan: Hey, can we get sushi here?
Brookbank: Aw man, I don't even remember how to make my roll!

Corey Perry behind the Oggi's pizza counter.

Ryan Getzlaf sold us a pepsi and a pretzel. I also congratulated him on his recent nuptials.

Teemu Selanne and Saku Koivu signing autographs at the fan relations desk.

The game itself wasn't a good one for the Ducks overall. Granted, we had a lot of our less-seasoned players on the ice, I think the coaches learned a good deal about what works and what doesn't. Bobby Ryan was the lone scorer (on the power play), looking comfortable in his new position as center. I saw Bobby set up a number of plays, trying to feed the puck to wingers near the net. Unfortunately, none of them were able to convert.

I miss Andrew Ebbett. He's a Yote now, and scored a goal against his former team. Mixed feelings there.

Our defense didn't seem to have a lot going for them either. They allowed way too much space between themselves and the oncoming Yote forwards, and paid the price. I felt they were also much too soft with how they held up the blue line. Of course then, the Coyotes had some of their best forwards out there, so that didn't help matters.

It looked a lot like the guys were playing too individually, not focusing on how to work together as a team. They were trying too hard to be the guy that wins the day, and in the end, the Ducks appeared sloppy and disjointed.

The Coyotes, on the other hand, played a more cooperative, seamless game. Being my boyfriend team, I also enjoyed seeing my Yotes back on the ice. Scottie Upshall hasn't laced up since the middle of last season, after going out with ACL/MCL injuries. I think I can safely say the knee isn't much of an issue now. It was also nice seeing Paul Bissonette, Petr Prucha, and Sami Lepisto again.

Keep in mind, it's a preseason game so winning and losing don't mean much. Even so, I'll be looking forward to tomorrow night's game, when our Ducks will have more seasoned guys like Getzlaf and Perry (and Hiller in net) to help out our rookies.

Heck, I'm just happy to see my boys back on the ice!

The boys are back in town - Training Camp 2010

2010-09-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

You can literally smell hockey season starting... or maybe that's just the locker rooms. But either way, hockey fans came in droves to watch old favorites and new rookies alike don their skates at Anaheim Ice.

With Bobby Ryan safely signed to a five-year contract, Paul Mara most recently added on a one-year, and Toni Lydman out indefinitely with migraines and double vision, the roster is roughly that which will be seen at the Ducks' first preseason game (against the Phoenix Coyotes) Tuesday night.

There were a few "new" players I was anxious to check out (Andy Sutton, Danny Syvret, Cam Fowler) so I started off my morning on the larger, and arguably colder, Olympic rink and worked my way over to the NHL rink to visit perennial favorites (Bobby, Teemu Selanne, Saku Koivu, Jonas Hiller, etc.) later. Oh, and to be in place for the scrimmage, of course.

I'm no hockey expert, so my observations are simply that: observations. I thought our boys, for the most part, looked good. Ryan Getzlaf's ankle injury appears to be well behind him, as are Hiller's back spasms. Saku, Teemu, and Bobby look great, as always. There's plenty of fight in guys like Stephane Veilleux (on a pro-tryout) and 2010 draftee Devante Smith-Pelly. Our passing could use some work, and I'm not talking about stretch passes, just ordinary passing!

Coach Carlyle has mentioned that Bobby will try his hand at playing center, and while I'm confident he'll do well (he hasn't floundered in that position in the past), I hesitate to put up any goal expectations in the sidebar for him this season! Maybe 30? Maybe 35?

Anyway, let's check out some pictures!

The Olympic rink boys watching a diagrammed play.

Jason Blake getting ready to fire one at Igor Bobkov while Sutton looks on.

I like what I'm seeing with Sutton. The guy is HUGE, for one, standing at 6'6" and 245 lbs. He's got great defensive presence, and I can't wait to see him in action at the Ponda. Personally, I don't think I'd want anyone else wearing #25 after Chris Pronger besides Sutton. Big shoes to fill, buddy, but I know you can do it.

Timo Pielmeier in the net.

I still like this kid, but I think he could use another year or two in the minors before he comes up.

Corey Perry and Jason Blake.

Aaron Voros and Kyle Chipchura, who's turning into a scoring machine at this year's training camp!

Curtis McElhinney watching Fowler, who's watching the puck.

Syvret, newly acquired from the Philadelphia Flyers.

Also liking what I'm seeing from Syvret: a close-covering defenseman who can put a few in the back of the net as well.

Local draftee Emerson Etem, Selanne, and Koivu.

Didn't see too much from Etem on day one, but I'm hoping he warms up in exhibition games.

Hiller, with a new black mask, between the pipes.

You can definitely see a comfort level with Hiller, who himself has said that it feels better knowing he's our number one goaltender and he won't have to prove himself every night to get the start.

The scrimmage was strenuous, I felt tired for our boys on the ice! As the days of training camp progressed, guys would get more physical and aggressive.

Voros and Bodie breaking up Carter and Sutton as tempers flare.

(I managed to bring Rebel XL for one day for better pictures, hence the two different sizes of pics. My apologies.)

Sutton giving Luca Sbisa a few words of advice, d-man to d-man.

Koivu and Veilleux battling for the puck while Selanne watches.

Ryan Getzlaf and Matt Beleskey race for the puck.

Getzlaf and Peter Holland in the faceoff.

Bobby and Perry took off after the puck, but Perry tripped and fell while Bobby gained possession.

The boys stretch after an exhausting scrimmage.

It's so good seeing our Ducks back out on the ice. The summer really has been too long. The first preseason game is tomorrow night against the Phoenix Coyotes. Can't wait!

Ladies and gentlemen, hockey is back!

2nd Annual Anaheim Ducks in a Roll

2010-09-14T00:58:00.000-07:00

One of my most favorite Ducks events from last season was the "Ducks in a Roll" sushi rolling contest for charity. I was more than excited to find that my Ducks were reprising the event for this season AND that it was going to be held on an evening I wasn't scheduled for work.

Fans of the Anaheim Ducks and sushi alike waiting for the event to begin

On hand this year, Ducks defenseman Sheldon Brookbank, and forwards Corey Perry and Troy Bodie. Ryan Getzlaf was originally scheduled to attend, but he didn't show. Todd Marchant minimally filled in, introducing the roll, but not getting his hands rice-covered in the process.

He left that to the sushi chef who made Getzy's roll sans Duck.

Setting up

I noticed big differences between this year's event and last year's, most notably the lack of any seating! There were considerably more people in attendance too, and standing room only appeared to be the rule of the evening.

For once, I arrived early, and was glad I did. My friends and I had one of the few tables.

There also wasn't a roped off "lane" at the sushi bar which, last year, had allowed the fans to taste along a moving line of sushi roll samples. This time, the area in front of each player was open and you could talk to him and watch him roll.

Troy Bodie receiving instructions on how to make his roll, The "Bodie"licious Roll

Sheldon Brookbank learning the technique behind his roll, The "Bank" Roll

Corey Perry named his creation The "Perry"dise Roll

Kent French returned this year as Master of Ceremonies

As before, purchased rolls donated $2 to the Anaheim Ducks Foundation and a vote towards that player for his creation as the "fan-favorite." My boyfriend ordered one of each roll early on in the competition, so we were one of the first tables to get our food. The ensuing attention from reporters and cameras was a little startling!

The "Perry"dise Roll

The Great "Getz"by Roll

I decided to pester the players.

Brookbank adding what I thought was his tastiest ingredient, wasabi tobiko. (That's wasabi-infused fish roe)

According to Brooksie, Getzy was MIA because he was recovering from wisdom teeth extraction. I think the boys were just trying to eliminate some competition.

Brooksie proudly showing off his completed masterpiece

Troy Bodie pretending to taste his ingredients

A finished "Bodie"licious Roll

Tim Marchant (he wants to be called Tim instead of Timmy) collecting a sample of "Perry"dise for the Team Marchant judges

Perry scooping spicy crab meat on top of his roll

Me, as I took a bite of "Perry"dise: Wait, did you spit in this?
Perry, with a smirk: No, not that one.

In my opinion, Getzy's roll was best. But that's because I'm not a fan of jalapenos and spicy sushi. Every roll had some sort of spiciness to it, but Getzy's was easily altered. Brookbank's roll was also really good, and it was the most pleasing to the eye.

The judging panel

Brookbank's roll sold the most, winning him the fan-favorite vote

But it was Bodie's roll that got the most votes from the judges. It will be available on RA Sushi's menu for the rest of the season

Corey Perry: "Whaddya mean I got the least votes?!"

Actually, Getzy's roll had the least votes, but I think that might have had something to do with the fact that he wasn't even there! People tend to like food more when it comes with a personality.

I said it last year and I'll say it again, if you didn't get a chance to go to this incredible event, make sure you do next year!

13th Annual Fedorin Cup

2010-08-29T02:29:00.000-07:00

Today marked the "unofficial start" of hockey season with the 13th Annual Fedorin Cup. Training camp is only weeks away, followed shortly by the preseason. By the looks of the impressive showing at Anaheim Ice this afternoon, I think I can safely say that Ducks fans are ready!

Waiting at will call

Established originally in 1998 in memory of Eric Fedorin, a Californian hockey player whose life was cut short by brain cancer, the Fedorin Cup game raises money for cancer charities. Hockey pros of the past and present play a friendly game of puck, prizes are auctioned and raffled off, and hockey fans gather in the spirit of giving and preseason excitement.

Let's check out the pictures!

Standing room only at Anaheim Ice, tickets were completely sold out

Team USA, captained by Todd Marchant, consisted of notables like Bobby Ryan, Jason Blake, Mike V., and Luca Sbisa

Team Canada, captained by Ryan Getzlaf, consisted of notables like Joe DiPenta, Sean Pronger, and Dustin Penner

Bobby, Getzy, and Todd Marchant are repeat players, always good to see them again. As well as Phil Hulett, who lent his PA prowess as Master of Ceremonies once again. New to the game were Jason Blake and Joe DiPenta, kudos to them for lending their time to such a good cause. Teemu Selanne had been verified for the roster as well, but I understand he's still in Finland. Apparently, he RSVPs every year in anticipation that he might be in the country in time for the event.

Luca Sbisa, who may end up shouldering many of the defensive responsibilities for the Ducks this season

Ryan Getzlaf, captain of Team Canada

The starting forward line for Team USA: Marchant, Bobby, and Blake

The ceremonial puck drop between Marchant and Getzlaf

Ex-cup winning Duck, Joe DiPenta, who recently signed a contract with AHL team the Syracuse Crunch

Getzlaf skating with the puck

Marchant engaging in some friendly trash talk

Silver vs Gold... I mean, Bobby vs Getzy at the faceoff

Phil and Wild Wing auctioning off a hockey stick signed by Ryan Getzlaf

Getzlaf sneaks one by Team USA Goalie, Adam Lawrence

Blake taking the puck up ice

There was some impressive skating and stick handling during the game, but nothing too physical. All in all, a very good-natured game. I was particularly impressed by the skills of sisters Annie and Alison Pankowsi, both playing in their first Fedorin Cup. Always good to see the girls rock the boys on the ice! Team USA fell behind in the first half, only to bounce back in the second and tie things up before the final horn sounded. Oh boy, a shootout! (surprise surprise!) A quick wrister by Getzy would settle the game with a Team Canada win.

The ceremonial handshake

A smashing success, the Fedorin event raised $10,000 for Hockey Fights Cancer

After the game, the event would transition into a dinner and casino night for the players and VIP attendees

But not before fans got a chance to get pictures and autographs!

Marchant tackles a sea of hockey fans wanting autographs

Blake joins the fray

Getzlaf posing for a fan picture

DiPenta signing autographs

Great job, guys! Can't wait to catch you at training camp!

New direction

2010-08-27T17:01:00.000-07:00

The hockey preseason is less than a month away (YAY!) and I still do not have any Bobby Ryan contract news to share. C'mon Bobby, you're making us nervous here! There was a quick message passed to me from Bobby a few weeks ago in which he didn't talk about contracts, but he did sound very confident that he'd be in Anaheim once the season started.

All we can do is keep our fingers crossed!

One thing is for certain, the Finnish Flash will be back for another season with the Ducks. I was feeling rather confident that he would, given 1) Saku Koivu is returning, 2) it wouldn't be Teemu's style to end a career without a postseason, and 3) in games he was able to play in, he was still playing good quality hockey. But you'll never hear me say I told you so.

Mini-plan in hand, I'm ready for some hockey. Fans will get a taste tomorrow with the 13th Annual Fedorin Cup Charity Hockey Game and Casino Night. Todd Marchant, Ryan Getzlaf, Teemu, and Bobby are all scheduled to be there, along with many other NHL players. I believe tickets are still available. Click here for more information.

I attended the event last year and it was a lot of fun. Hoping this year will be the same. I'll have Baby Rebel in hand for plenty of pics and story to share with everyone tomorrow!

Go hockey!!

Free agency... frenzy?

2010-07-30T21:34:00.000-07:00

The NHL teams that will hit the ice for the beginning of the 2010-11 season are going to look considerably different from the teams that left it a few weeks ago.

Our Anaheim Ducks are no exception.

What with captain Scott Niedermayer retiring, Ducks have some big holes to fill.

Typically, this time of the year is buzzing with trade news and signings. This summer seems a little quiet... or maybe that's because the Ducks haven't been dealing any big names. Yours truly actually started writing this post weeks ago. Then I decided to wait for more Ducks news before publishing.

I'm still waiting.

To date, we have the following changes to the Ducks roster:

- Left winger Logan MacMillan was traded to the Calgary Flames for left wing/center Jason Jaffray

- Former Buffalo Sabres defenseman Toni Lydman was signed to a three-year contract

- Center Saku Koivu was re-signed to a two-year contract (Personally, this news made my day!)

- Center Trevor Smith, formerly of the New York Islanders, was signed to a one-year contract

- Left wingers Aaron Voros and Ryan Hillier of the New York Rangers were acquired for defenseman Steve Eminger

- Left winger Josh Green inked a one-year contract

- Defenseman Brendan Mikkelson continues on as a Duck with a one-year contract

- Left winger Matt McCue (along with his sharp right hook) was traded to the New York Rangers in exchange for left winger Tomas Zaborsky

- Defenseman Danny Syvret, formerly with the Philadelphia Flyers, was inked to a one-year contract

- Defenseman Cam Fowler, the Ducks first overall pick at this year's draft, signed a three-year entry-level contract

- Defenseman James Wisniewski agreed to a one-year contract with the Ducks, only to be traded to the New York Islanders for a third round 2011 draft pick later that same day

I'm not sure what Bob Murray is up to, but he better not be finished yet. Somebody better be helping Lubomir Visnovsky with that blue line, and serious ink needs to be spilled as far as Bobby Ryan and Teemu Selanne are concerned!

Prospect Camp

2010-07-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

Yours truly hasn't gotten too heavily involved with our Anaheim Ducks prospects and draft picks in seasons past, but being hockey deprived since the season's end drove myself and many other Ducks fans to Anaheim Ice this past week to watch our new Ducklings participate in prospect camp.

Scrimmages were open to the public on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday evenings.

Just a few casual observations:

- Dan Sexton, having not attended a prospect camp, showed off his speed and puck handling skills.

- 2010 draft pick Kevin Lind looked good holding up the blue line.

- Ex-assistant coach Newell Brown's son, Adam, showed us some of his netminding skills.

- Kyle Palmieri is a name I want to see come up from the minors this season. The kid has speed, smooth hands, and a shooting patience reminiscent of Corey Perry.

- 2010 draft pick Devante Smith-Pelly plays a gritty style and boasts a frame that will only fill out in the upcoming years.

- We were also excited to see Ducks' 2010 first round draft picks Cam Fowler and Emerson Etem show us why they went 12th and 29th overall, respectively.

And a few pictures:

Big crowds at Anaheim Ice

Timo Pielmeier between the pipes

Cam Fowler on a one-on-one rush

Defensemen Scott Valentine and Mat Clark defend against right winger Justin Vaive

Marco Cousineau and Nick Bonino

Cam Fowler helping Marco Cousineau defend the goal

Kyle Palmieri and Adam Brown at the bench

Devante Smith-Pelly skates to a halt after the whistle

The guys stretch after 60 minutes of play

2010 NHL Entry Draft

2010-06-27T20:46:00.000-07:00

The NHL Entry Draft isn't something that comes to town every year, especially not to us Southern Californian markets. So, despite an 8-hour work shift at the job that actually pays the bills, yours truly made the 1.5-hour drive (including traffic) up to the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Outside the front entrance to the Staples Center, local radio stations, local minor leagues, and the LA Kings media had set up stands to welcome hockey fans and curious passersby to the festivities.

LA Live, decked out in hockey decor

Once inside the arena, vendors dotted the outer concourse. All of the NHL trophies, including the Stanley Cup, were on display. As is always the case at Staples, lots of Kings-clad fans walked the grounds; but also in attendance, a fair share of Anaheim Ducks fans and a modest showing of fans representing the other 28 franchises.

Yours truly was excited just to see so much hockey in one place! (Yes, it's going to be a long summer)

NHL hardware

Lord Stanley, we meet again!

The view from the 300 level

The main stage, where new draftees received hats, jerseys, and handshakes from their new franchises

TV coverage for everyone watching at home

I will admit, the only reason I found the Ducks table was by spotting the one and only Scott Niedermayer sitting at the upper right corner. Scotty would hand the Ducks' 12th and 29th picks their new Ducks jerseys.

Scotty watching the jumbotron

Surprised that he was still available by the time the 12th pick came around, the Ducks took 6'1" 190lb defenseman Cam Fowler. He's a left-shooting defenseman from the Windsor Spitfires, said to be a good puck-handler and puck-possessor who sees the ice well and controls the tempo of the game. He's compared to Tomas Kaberle and Jack Johnson.

Ducks take defenseman Cam Fowler for their 1st pick, 12th overall

For their 2nd pick in the first round, Ducks take Emerson Etem, 29th overall

A speedy right winger who shoots left, Emerson Etem is a local hockey boy from Long Beach, CA with lots of promise. He mirrors himself after Marian Gaborik and has been likened to Glenn Anderson and Joffrey Lupul.

The second day of the draft saw far fewer fans in attendance. Six more rounds landed the Ducks six more draft picks: right winger Devante Smith-Pelly, right winger Chris Wagner (Toronto's 122nd pick in exchange for Mike Brown), defenseman Tim Heed, center Andreas Dahlstrom, defenseman Kevin Lind, and right winger Brett Perlini.

Ex-Ducks GM Brian Burke, possibly discussing his trade involving Ducks forward Mike Brown

Overall, I think the Ducks did well with their draft picks. I will be very sorry to see Mike Brown go; he consistently played with heart and determination, always bringing 110% to the ice. Hopefully he'll see a lot more ice time with the Leafs.

The next items of business for GM Bob Murray should be securing Saku Koivu and Bobby Ryan.

Oh Captain, my Captain

2010-06-22T21:41:00.001-07:00

Only two franchises in the NHL can say they've had Scott Niedermayer on their roster: the New Jersey Devils, who drafted Scotty at the beginning of his 18-year NHL career, and the Anaheim Ducks, who would be the last to have Scotty skate on its home ice.

You don't have to be a Ducks fan or a Devils fan to appreciate what Scott Niedermayer has accomplished, and what he has meant for the sport of hockey. The man continues to be the most decorated athlete in the sport, honored with four Stanley Cups, two Olympic Gold Medals, World Cup, World Championship, Memorial Cup, and World Junior title. He did it all with the quiet professionalism Ducks fans, including yours truly, had come to know and love.

He has done more for the franchise than anyone could hope to recognize, and his influence will live on in the careers of every young rookie Scott Niedermayer exchanged words or glances with in the locker room. As hockey fans, we are so lucky to have seen this phenomenal athlete in action on a regular basis.

And even though the Duck faithful will be eager to fill the seats of the Ponda once again with the start of the 2010-11 season this autumn, it won't ever be quite the same without number 27 on the ice.

Thank you for everything you've done, Scotty, we'll miss you.

Headlines

2010-06-19T23:14:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since the last entry in this blog. But I do hope you all enjoyed the exclusive interview with Bobby Ryan. Since then, a few notables:

- The Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup. Kudos to the Hawks and Philadelphia Flyers for giving us a gripping series which ended with a Game 6 complete with overtime. As much as it would have satisfied yours truly to see ex-Duck Chris Pronger hoist Stanley again, it's also nice to have the Cup in the Western Conference. It was also nice to see personal favorite ex-Duck Nick Boynton get some time holding Stanley over his head.

- Sheldon Brookbank signed a two-year extension with the Ducks. This is a good thing. Brookbank showed improvement and promise in his past season with the Ducks and, seeing as Captain Scott Neidermayer may not be coming back next season, our Ducks will need all the help they can get on that blue line.

- Kyle Chipchura inked a one-year contract extension with the Ducks. Picked up from the Montreal Habs last season, Chipchura's grit and willingness to drop the gloves quickly made him a fan favorite. We'll be happy to see him back next season.

- Still pending, contract negotiations for Bobby Ryan. Bobby will be a restricted free agent come July 1st. The fact that we haven't re-signed him yet has yours truly, along with plenty of other Duck faithful, nervous. C'mon Murray, if you know what's good for you and your team, you'll sign this boy pronto.

- Also still pending, news from our Finnish duo. Rumor has it that both Teemu Selanne and Saku Koivu will return for another season with the Ducks. I'm hoping these rumors prove to be true. Our Fins, along with linemate Jason Blake, finally found their groove towards the later half of last season. Given Selanne keeps his jaw and hands away from flying pucks, these three look poised and ready for a kickass final season together.

- The official 2010-11 NHL schedule will be announced on Tuesday, June 22. Grab your calendars and get those vacation plans penciled in. The Phoenix Coyotes have already announced their preseason schedule. Their first game, scheduled for September 21, is against the Ducks here in Anaheim.

- Los Angeles will host the 2010 NHL Draft next weekend. Yours truly will be there with Baby Rebel, hoping to bring you the scoop. Anaheim will pick 12th and 29th. They better make those picks good, I want another Stanley Cup in Anaheim's not-too-distant future!

Interview with Bobby Ryan (Part 2)

2010-04-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Part Two of an exclusive interview with Anaheim Ducks winger Bobby Ryan. Click here for Part One of the interview, in case you missed it.

Ducks54: Do you and the guys enjoy the signs that fans bring to warmups?

Bobby: We love the signs people bring, especially the creative ones. We’ll acknowledge those and hassle teammates about them. It’s nice to know you have an effect on someone’s day, in whatever way.

Ducks54: Who is typically your roommate on the road? Do you have any crazy road roommate stories you can tell us?

Bobby: Last year it was George Parros. This year, it’s been a rotating system for me. I started off with Loops [Joffrey Lupul], but when he went down, I was with [Kyle] Chipchura, then [Matt] Beleskey, and then back to being with George. We’ve got the best room in the NHL! We have an ongoing wrestling match with Brooky [Sheldon Brookbank] and [Ryan] Getzlaf (they’re roommies) and that’s been in the process for over a year. I think we have the upperhand cuz George is always nice to have on your side during a fight!

Teemu Selanne and Bobby Ryan speak at the inauguration of the Corona Inline Rink February 16, 2009

Ducks54: I understand you play the guitar. Which songs/artists do you like to play, or do you write your own stuff?

Bobby: I picked up guitar in juniors and taught myself through books and online programs. I’ve only recently developed an “ear” for picking up tempos and chords in songs. I don’t write a whole bunch, I usually just try to stick with what’s catching my ear on the radio, and some classics. My favorites to play are Bob Seger, Pearl Jam, and a bit of Nickelback. I also like to play country if I’m hanging out alone or playing in front of people.

Ducks54: If you got stuck having to drive to a game in Phoenix with two of your teammates (that’s six hours of straight driving in the same car), who would your roadtrip buddies be and why?

Bobby: My two choices would probably be George [Parros], and either [Brett] Festerling or Boynts [Nick Boynton]. George has that upbeat style so he would provide the jokes. And I think Boynts and I would balance him out with our humble sarcasm. We’d be bringing him back into the car as he had his head out the window screaming the lyrics to John Michael Montgomery’s “I Swear” to passing cars. Fest would be my bubble choice because we’ve spent a lot of time together doubled up on the bus in the minors and had fun. But then again, he’s also a loud breather… and you remember how I feel about loud breathers!

Ducks54: Do you have a favorite charity that you would like to represent or be a spokesperson for?

Bobby: I did Points for Cancer years ago in juniors but haven’t picked it back up yet. Companies in Owen Sound donated money for every point I accumulated during the season and it all went to research in the area. I think if I did anything, it would be something along those lines.

Bobby Ryan generously donating his time to meet with fans for the 2nd Annual Joe DiPenta Lasagna Fundraiser on June 4, 2009

Ducks54: You recently bought a house in Newport. How is it being a homeowner in Southern California?

Bobby: I love Newport Beach, and being a homeowner is a lot of fun. The house was very bare all summer long, but it’s getting there. Luca [Sbisa] and I really did a good job of making it a bachelor pad, but Danielle moved in and put some touches on it to make it a “home.” We’ve really enjoyed the weather and the view. It’s been nice to sit on the patio and eat dinner. Big difference from Owen Sound or Maine, where you had to eat inside with a jacket on to keep warm.

Ducks54: If you weren’t a pro hockey player, what would you be doing for a living?

Bobby: I was always very interested in architecture. I loved designing how I’d wanted my home to be when I was 17, 18 years old. If hockey hadn’t panned out, I think I would have gone to school for a degree in that field.

Ducks54: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

Bobby: I don’t anymore. I had a Siberian Husky named “Blades” but I moved out West and Mom ended up babysitting for three weeks. Now it’s turned into three years and he’s become a spoiled brat and Momma’s boy. So I let him stay home with my mom and enjoy the cold weather in New Jersey. I’m an animal person all around and love cats. We have looked into rescuing two recently. I think I will probably have them by months’ end if all goes well!

Ducks54: Who is your favorite current NHL player?

Bobby: Without a doubt, my favorite to watch play is [Pavel] Datsyuk. To me, his skill level is far ahead of anyone’s in the league. What he can do with the puck is incredible! If you haven’t seen his [breakaway] goal against Chicago, you should take a look...

Ducks54: What would you say are the advantages of playing hockey in a small hockey market like Southern California? How about the disadvantages?

Bobby: Like I said earlier, I think the advantages are that certain level of anonymity. You can do things without being in the media spotlight all the time. That being said, we draw great crowds anyway, so the games are always loud and the crowd is with you. I think a disadvantage might be that California has so many things to offer, it’s a bit easy to get sidetracked into the lifestyle. But we also have a coach who doesn’t take many days off, so he keeps us in check!

Bobby Ryan is, so far, the only American-born Duck to win an Olympic medal

Interview with Bobby Ryan (Part 1)

2010-04-30T23:01:00.000-07:00

Earlier in the season, yours truly was blessed with the tremendous opportunity to ask Anaheim Ducks winger (and personal favorite) Bobby Ryan a few questions. Thanks to various Duck friends, fans, and Twitter pals who also submitted questions for me to ask Bobby. And, of course, very special thanks to Bobby for generously donating his time and patience.

This is Part One of a two-part interview in which Bobby shares all things hockey and non-hockey. Enjoy!

Ducks54: Do you have any pet peeves? And if so, give us a few examples.

Bobby: I have a million pet peeves, but the biggest one is loud chewing and breathing! There are minor ones like traffic and slow drivers in a passing lane. Those really set me off too!

Ducks54: Where do you see yourself five years from now? Would you still want to be with the Ducks?

Bobby: I still see myself in the NHL and hopefully competing for a Stanley Cup. I’d prefer to still be in Anaheim, but I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself.

Focused on the game, Bobby Ryan listens to the coaching staff during a television time-out

Ducks54: Who in the NHL have you, or do you, measure yourself up against?

Bobby: I’ve always tried to compare myself to Todd Bertuzzi growing up, but I kind of like the Rick Nash comparison better. I think we’re both big guys who use our bodies to create room, and help stickhandle through traffic areas.

Ducks54: Who’s your favorite goalie to shoot against? Who’s your least favorite?

Bobby: I think my favorite is [Evgeni] Nabokov. He’s a great goalie, but I’ve had some success shooting on him in the past. Hopefully that stays true, because it’s always nice to score on the Sharks! My least favorite is Manny Legace. He’s impossible for me to score on.

Ducks54: How do you get so much elevation on your backhand?

Bobby: Backhands are really only mastered through practice and routine. I can give you one hint, it’s easiest to start with the puck in the middle of the blade, and roll it towards the front to get it up. Be careful not to roll your wrist too much. People tend to think it’s a very fragile shot, but the more power you put into the flicking motion, the more height you will get.

Bobby Ryan is named the 1st star of the game versus the St. Louis Blues, January 7, 2010

Ducks54: Have you seen any good movies lately?

Bobby: I don’t see many movies in theaters anymore, but I do love spending a night in to watch a movie. I was given Blind Side on DVD; that was a great story with good acting. I also really enjoyed Invictus with Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman.

Ducks54: What kind of music do you listen to?

Bobby: If you were to ask the guys, they would laugh because my music taste is considered off the wall. I try to throw a little bit of everything in there. Country, rock, and anything acoustic. I can’t stand rap music unless it’s right before a game. My favorite artists are Matt Nathanson and Ray Lamontagne, and I’m really liking the new Dashboard Confessionals CD.

Ducks54: What’s the hardest thing about being a pro hockey player?

Bobby: The travel and, for lack of a better word, the fame. The travel is tough on your body and can be mentally exhausting at times. And you’re away from the people you want to spend a lot of time with. The fame, if you can call it that, isn’t always fun. I’m a quiet and private person so I like to keep to myself. I don’t always enjoy hockey conversation once I leave the rink. But in California, you do get a certain level of anonymity that’s nice to have.

Matt Beleskey, John Ahlers, and Bobby Ryan answer questions from the audience during their Rinks appearance December 14, 2009

Ducks54: Who is your favorite team to play against, as far as getting a good, challenging game going?

Bobby: I think I’d have to say San Jose, because you know it’s always going to be a tough, tight checking game. The rivalry between us is so intense, it’s nice to have some bragging rights if you’re the team in the lead!

Ducks54: You changed your number from 54 to 9. Did you know about the franchise history with #9 (Paul Kariya) and was it a consideration when you made your number change?

Bobby: I think it was always assumed that I wanted number 9. I knew about Paul and what he did in Anaheim. I wasn’t really concerned with it. Before a game last year, Bob Murray came in and said, “You’re wearing nine tonight.” I just kind of said, “ok.” It’s nice to wear a number you’ve always worn, but at the same time, I was fine with 54 and would have kept that one if needed be.

Please stay tuned for Part Two of this interview, coming shortly!

Phoenix Coyotes season end

2010-04-28T11:03:00.000-07:00

I'm sure I wasn't the only one feeling the heartache last night, as the Phoenix Coyotes fell in crushing defeat to the Detroit Red Wings. After their stunning win in Game 6, it seemed all the more likely that the desert dogs might just have a chance at beating the Wings in this series.

But inevitably, the Yotes were no match against a playoff-perennial like Detroit, who brought everything including the kitchen sink to Phoenix for a landslide 6-1 win. Key Red Wingers like Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Zetterberg, and Niklas Lidstrom showed just why they are considered the best in the league.

Aside from Yotes goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, who started the game off with some awesome saves, yours truly noted that the playoff-green Yotes looked tired and disjointed. Bryz couldn't keep up the acrobatics for a full 60 minutes without a team in front of him. Sitting out his fourth game since a shoulder dislocation, captain Shane Doan also had to watch his team crumble before him.

It was indeed a disappointing end to a fabulous Coyote season, but yours truly would like to remind the Phoenix Coyotes and their fans that they have every reason to be proud of what they managed to accomplish over the past seven months. Amidst ownership turmoil, coach resignations, and every hockey analyst pegging them for last place in 2009-10 season predictions, the Yotes were the Cinderella team.

I remember road-tripping to the opening season game, only to see the team get shutout by the Columbus Blue Jackets (who didn't make the playoffs). I couldn't even buy a Matthew Lombardi t-shirt at the team store because doubts about the team's residence in Phoenix kept merchandise orders on hold.

The small, diehard fanbase grew over a season which saw the Yotes take the Hockey Nation by storm. Suddenly, under new coach Dave Tippett (officially nominated this morning for the Jack Adams award), this team of no-name NHLers was winning games and breaking franchise records.

They burst into the playoffs, clinching a seed behind perennial Pacific Division clinchers, the San Jose Sharks. Unfortunately, the first round would pit them against a Red Wing team fueled by a last-minute push for post-season contention. Again, the naysayers would vote the Yotes out by the fifth or sixth game, claiming Detroit would annihilate them.

But the gritty series would bring out the best in both teams, and arguably the best playoff hockey in Round One. The Yotes forced the Wings all the way to a Game 7, and in so doing, earned respect by fans and players all over the league. As I watched the final handshake (one of my favorite things about hockey), heard the remaining Phoenix fans chant "Let's go, Co-yotes!" (they didn't empty the seats like Detroit had in Game 6), and watched the team salute the crowd in return, I wanted to tell them how proud I was... and how much I appreciated the ride.

Yours truly believes the effects of the 2009-2010 season will ring positive for small-market hockey for years to come. Hopefully, the ownership squabbles will end, the Coyotes will stay in Phoenix, and I'll have many more roadtrip games to look forward to!

Hats off to you, Coyotes!

Phoenix Coyotes at Detroit, vs Red Wings (Round 1, Game 6)

2010-04-26T11:10:00.001-07:00

Big game for the Phoenix Coyotes, if they expect to extend their post-season another night.

Early on, it doesn't look good. Defenseman Ed Jovanovski takes a penalty and puts the highly effective Detroit Red Wings on a power play. The Yotes keep their forecheck hard however, and create a turnover in neutral ice that allows Lauri Korpovkoski to send a short-hander past Wings goaltender Jimmy Howard five-hole.

Yotes take the lead five minutes into the first, 1-0.

The Yotes capitalize on the momentum and put up a tremendous fight to kill a 5-on-3 penalty. The game is not unlike the other games in this series: fast-paced, aggressive, hard-hitting... everything playoff hockey should be! captain Shane Doan is still out, having sustained an upper-body injury during Game 3.

But the Yotes have played remarkably despite the loss. The boys have said that Doan is active in the locker room before the game and between periods, rallying his team and boosting the morale. What a captain!

The Wings are playing an intensely physical game, landing hit after hit. The Yotes are making use of their offensive defensemen, guys like Jovo and Keith Yandle often jumping into plays below the circles. And the Yotes are landing plenty of hits of their own.

Phoenix takes the only goal into the first intermission.

Not to sell anyone short, I should mention that both netminders are standing tall in this game, but Ilya Bryzgalov comes up huge against those Red Wings shots.

Yotes continue their pressure and, on a rare Wings penalty, Matthew Schneider receives the puck from Adrian Accoin (who blocks a Wings attempt to clear) and slaps it home from the point. Unfortunately, less than a minute later, the Wings answer and get on the board.

The Wings go on to take a pair of penalties, very rare for them, but probably a sign of frustration. The first is killed off but the second sees Verdim Vrbata snapping a wrister into the net.

Before the end of the period, Petr Prucha puts another into the net. Unlike my beloved Ducks, the Yotes continue to put offensive pressure on their opponent. Yotes take a 4-1 lead into the second intermission...

... and increase that lead to four goals with a bid by Yandle in the third. Bryz continues to be phenomenal despite the Wings getting a goal that was initially waved off. Fights break out in the third as the Wings attempt to turn their impending loss at home into a message for the hungry Coyotes. Yours truly enjoyed watching the frustration... and the plethora of empty seats at the Joe.

With that, the Yotes force a game 7 on Tuesday back at home in Phoenix. You won't want to miss that one!

Edited: This just in, the Vancouver Canucks clinched tonight, knocking the Los Angeles Kings out of the playoffs! It's a good day in hockeyland, ladies and gents.

2010 Playoffs, round 1 (Western)

2010-04-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

Even though our hometown heroes are well on their way to various golf courses around the globe, yours truly is hoping Duck fans are still enjoying playoff hockey. If anything, it's kind of fun to cheer against long-time Duck rivals.

And this post-season, the games have been very entertaining so far. The Phoenix Coyotes are my self-proclaimed mistress team, so I've been quite entertained watching them take on the Detroit Red Wings. Ex-Duck goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov has been stellar, capping off a Vezina-nominated season with what could be a legitimate run for the cup. Personally, yours truly would love to see this. The Coyotes have had their troubles this season, complete with ownership and bankruptcy squabbles that had most of the hockey purists denouncing the desert underdogs at the beginning of the season.

Under new coach Dave Tippett, the Yotes have fought their way into the post-season, breaking a number of franchise records in stride. They've risen dramatically in the playoffs, keeping pace with the Wings for a furiously entertaining series. Hockey enthusiasts can at least agree that both of these clubs have brought their best to the first round.

As a sidenote, I'm also enjoying seeing newly acquired ex-Duck Petteri Nokelainen bring his energy and enthusiasm to the Yotes. At least I get to see one of my boys in the playoffs.

I'm hoping to see the Yotes end the Wings' run early, and avenge my Ducks for last post-season's lame series-winning goal. It would be hockey justice, you know?

Also very intriguing is the San Jose Sharks contest against the eighth-seeded Colorado Avalanche. In keeping with the Sharks' post-season choking tradition, yours truly tuned in to last night's game just in time to watch Sharks veteran defenseman Dan Boyle fire a shot that was deflected behind his own goaltender within the first minute of overtime. I feel incredibly bad for Boyle, but I can't help but snicker at the ~~Chokes'~~ Sharks' misfortune.

I'm also keeping tabs on the Los Angeles Kings/Vancouver Canucks matchup. However, this is primarily to keep me aware of which nights to steer clear of the Staples Center. I've already mentioned how fond I am of Kings fans, and the hecklings I receive every time I step foot near Staples with my Bobby Ryan jersey. So here's hoping the Kings are quickly pushed out of their first playoffs since 2002.

I haven't been watching too many games in the Eastern Conference, highlights aside. But that will change as the rounds advance and there are less games to watch. Ducks fan or not, playoff hockey is playoff hockey.

Go Yotes/Avs/Canucks!

Officially eliminated

2010-04-07T15:12:00.000-07:00

Tonight's game between our hometown heroes and their Freeway Faceoff rivals, the Los Angeles Kings, could have had a lot more at stake. It could have been uglier, it could have been nastier... especially considering these two teams had just competed at the Los Angeles Staples Center, the Ducks barely eeking out a win in the shootout.

Had the Vancouver Canucks been successful at winning their contest against the Colorado Avalanche, a win for the Ducks tonight could have kept their postseason hopes alive. But the Canucks lost about half an hour before the Ducks did.

I suppose in the end, it's probably better this way. The Canuck loss signalled the official elimination of the Ducks from the 2010 playoffs. We fans couldn't blame our boys when they let yet another three-goal lead slip away in the second half of tonight's game.

Although, that doesn't keep yours truly from being upset at the coaching staff for instructing (or allowing) our boys to simply attempt to protect a lead once they'd established one early on. Why do we always do this? Why come up so big, just to let it all frustratingly slip away with ineffectual puck-dumping maneuvers, lack of forechecking, and no pressure on the puck? We let the other team come back, we encourage them to take shot after shot on our poor goaltenders, we challenge them to get past our defensemen... and more times than not, they do.

Before the Kings won in the shootout, we fans were treated to goals from Jason Blake, my boy Bobby Ryan (who finally beat his goal tally for last season), and two from Teemu Selanne.

It was actually an awesome game up through the first half.

Having suspected our hometown heroes would be ending their season early this month, yours truly followed the subplots that had developed during the season. I would cheer for two-point wins, of course, but I also rallied behind the Finnish Flash's endeavor to break the big 600 club. Of course, he made this happen before the end of the season.

We would also see him tie and eventually break his childhood hero's 601-goal record. I will back-post pictures from those games, as the touching tribute is definitely something worth documenting. Ducks fans held their heads high as one of their most notable Ducks was honored for creating hockey history.

Speaking of Selanne, another subplot that yours truly found remarkable to watch unfold was the development of a wonderfully productive scoring line consisting of Selanne, Saku Koivu, and Jason Blake. Towards the end of the season, these boys could not be beat. Every shift held a possible goal-scoring opportunity. We fans had waited all season for that magical Saku-Teemu chemistry, it's a shame we won't see it continue in the postseason.

Perhaps next season? Murray, that's your cue to MAKE SURE Saku gets re-signed and Blake stays on this line.

There are three games left on the Ducks schedule, two away and one at home next Sunday. I will follow up Sunday's fan appreciation game with my exclusive interview with Bobby Ryan, and perhaps track the playoff games.

After all, playoff hockey is an entirely different animal.

Ducks vs Chicago Blackhawks

2010-03-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

A few observations from the game:

First period -

- Wayyyy too many chances for the Hawks. Hiller is doing great keeping pucks out of his net, but he's being tested too many times too early on for my taste.

- The birthday boy nets his first of the night, Bobby Ryan makes the first mark on the scoresheet.

- Lubomir Visnovsky, who came to the Ducks at the trade deadline from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for defenseman Ryan Whitney, is nothing short of awesome. Finally, we have another strong D-man who doesn't hesitate to unleash his rocket of a slapper from the blue line. Almost makes me forgive the original trade of Chris Kunitz for Whitney last season.

- Both teams with great energy. The goaltenders are getting a workout, facing nearly 20 shots on goal each in the first period.

Second period -

- It's getting ugly out here. Corey Perry takes a hit to the head from Brent Seabrook, who also takes a huge hit from James Wisniewski in retaliation.

- Crawford attempts a similar play to Hiller in which he comes way out of the net to head off an oncoming short-handed rush by the Ducks. But he fumbles the puck, and Kyle Chipchura assists Todd Marchant in burying that puck into the back of the net. Second goal of the game for Anaheim.

- Hiller still coming up big. The boy is definitely in the zone tonight.

Third period -

- Very entertaining game altogether, both clubs pulling out all the stops.

- Boiling over at the end, Bobby's empty netter seals a Duck win as well as prompting a livid Kris Versteeg to cross-check Marchant. Bobby jumps at Versteeg and a line brawl breaks out. Amongst the pushing and shoving, two sets of flying fists emerge: ex-Duck Nick Boynton (now with the Blackhawks) and Wiz. Yours truly found the matchup a bit surprising, especially considering how both parties looked like their hits were fueled by more than a good-natured fight.

Something tells me Nicky and Wiz weren't exactly friends when they were both Ducks.

Coyotes Carnival

2010-03-08T21:34:00.000-08:00

I know this is a self-proclaimed Anaheim Ducks blog, but I've been known to highlight certain non-Duck hockey events, particularly in the off-season.

Granted, this isn't the off-season yet, there was a non-Duck hockey event worth reporting on. Yours truly is doing this out of respect for a franchise that did a great job bringing players and fans together in the name of charity.

Oh, and it was also a heckuvalot of fun, making it worth blogging about! (Special thanks to a certain friend that accompanied me and allowed me to get the most out of the festivities!)

This past Sunday, after our hometown heroes had left Phoenix, Arizona and were on their way back home to host the Montreal Canadiens, the Phoenix Coyotes continued their weekend with popcorn and cotton candy at the Coyotes Carnival.

Brought indoors due to inclimate weather, the rink at Jobing.com Arena would become the carnival grounds

Players manned the game booths; everything from ring tosses to milk bottle topples to darts could be played by the attending fans. With a $5 donation, fans could get a player autograph or a picture with a player; both for $10. Attendance cost only $10, and all donations went to Coyotes Charities.

Left winger Lauri Korpikoski manning the ring toss booth

There was also a live band, clowns, face-painting, jugglers, and carnival-themed food. Every donation gave a fan a chance in the raffle drawing for plenty of prize packages, including glass tickets, concert suites, and vacation destinations. Hockey sticks, memorabilia, and autographs from players past were sold at discounted prices at the "Garage Sale" booth.

Before the carnival began, VIP fans were treated to a catered Fleming's lunch with the players

Good grub for growing athletes

Yours truly wasn't exactly hungry, feeling more excited and anxious than anything. For the record, I've never personally met any of the Coyotes before. The team has been my second favorite (behind the Ducks, of course) for the last year (specifically, since center Matthew Lombardi was traded from the Calgary Flames at the 2009 trade deadline), but I don't know much about the other players.

My pick-up line tended to be, "Hey, I flew in from California to see the Ducks/Yotes game last night and for the carnival today..." and the reactions from the players were anything from "Oh no, don't tell me you're a Ducks fan!" (defenseman Keith Yandle) to "Oh wow, that's great! We have Coyotes fans in California!" (Captain Shane Doan) to "I was with the Ducks in '03 for that painful playoff finals loss. And then I left Anaheim and they went on to win the Cup! Go figure!" (defenseman Kurt Sauer).

Shane Doan, the ultimate fan-friend, stayed long after all the other players had left to give every fan special attention

Ex-Duck Goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov was extremely amused, pointing out that the picture I'd brought him to autograph was one I had shot at the Ponda. He exclaimed, "You're a Ducks fan, but you're wearing a Coyotes shirt!" which he then followed with lots of hearty laughter.

Bryz, you crack me up.

Bryz stifling a yawn as he signed autographs. I don't blame the guy, his line was long, second only to Doan

Defenseman Jim Vandermeer signing autographs

Right winger Petr Prucha chatting with a young fan

Left winger Taylor Pyatt and defenseman Adrian Aucoin signing autographs

Defenseman Sami Lepisto is the Yotes sole Olympian medalist. He brought home the bronze with Team Finland

Tough guys Paul Bissonnette and Ed Jovanovski signing autographs

Overall, this was an amazing event. I was greatly impressed by the Coyotes players in attendance as well as the rest of the Coyotes staff. I was also impressed by the fans that I had the opportunity to talk to while standing in the player lines. The hockey market might be small in the desert, but there are fans out there who are very devoted to their team. And there is a very appreciative franchise that goes above and beyond to thank them for their support.

Ducks Olympians honored

2010-03-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

The Winter Olympics come around only once every four years. But how often is it that a hockey franchise sends nine of their own to compete for the coveted gold medal (an NHL record, by the way)?

And how often do seven of those nine come back with Olympic medals (also an NHL record!)?

Heck, this is history in the making!

Yours truly was lucky enough to be off work today and able to attend the live taping of "The Element" which would feature interviews and photography opportunities with our seven medalists.

Setting up the stage before the big show

Attendance was small at first, limited to the diehards that were probably there hours beforehand to claim the best seats. The boys were at the Ponda for the group photo shoot prior to this engagement, and it wasn't until about half past noon that things got started.

By that time, seating was all but taken. However, yours truly has found that standing is the best way to take pictures. Jonas Hiller, now world reknowned for his amazing performance at the Olympics, came out first.

I feel bad that Jonas Hiller is the only medal-less Duck

Teemu Selanne and Saku Koivu were interviewed next, winning their contest against Slovakia and nabbing the bronze

The interviews themselves were difficult to hear, but fans can catch every word on the Ducks website once the taping is posted.

After trading Ryan Whitney to the Edmonton Oilers, Bobby Ryan remains the only American-born Duck in franchise history to be an Olympian

Lastly, gold medalists Corey Perry, Captain Scott Niedermayer, and Ryan Getzlaf

Take a bow, boys. You've made your countries, and your Duck fans, extremely proud!

After the group picture, the entire place turned into a veritable zoo. People who had no idea what hockey is, but who just happened to see the roped-off areas, gathered to see what the spectacle was all about. Even amongst the chaos, our hometown heroes stayed to sign autographs and pose for pictures.

Bobby indulging the fans

Captain Canada tolerating them too

Overall, a wonderful event and opportunity to showcase hockey in Southern California. The sport has a long way to go in this corner of the globe, undoubtedly, but the incredible displays of athletic skill and talent by our hometown heroes at the Winter Games have piqued the interest of the non-hockey community.

And that's where it all begins.

Ducks vs Colorado Avalanche

2010-03-03T23:16:00.000-08:00

It's the first game since the Olympic break, and our Ducks team isn't exactly whole. Thanks to trades made up through today's deadline, the roster is a bit lighter:

- Big man Evgeny Artyukhin was traded to the Atlanta Thrashers in exchange for defenseman Nathan Oystrick and a conditional selection.

- Veteran defenseman Nick Boynton was sent to the Chicago Blackhawks for considerations.

- Goaltender Justin Pogge and a fourth rounder from either 2010 or 2011 were sent to the Carolina Hurricanes for veteran defenseman Aaron Ward.

- An even goalie exchange, Ducks sent Vesa Toskala to Calgary for Curtis McElhinney.

- For a 2011 7th-round pick, Ducks picked up goaltender Joey MacDonald from the Toronto Maple Leafs.

- Olympic silver medalist and defenseman Ryan Whitney plus a 2010 6th-round pick were traded to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for high-scoring defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky.

- Grinding forward, and one of yours truly's personal favorites, Petteri Nokelainen was sent to the Phoenix Coyotes for a 6th-round 2010 pick.

Our defense consisted of only five guys, as Lubo and Ward won't get into town until tomorrow. In either case, yours truly is excited about the trades. As sad as I am to see some of our boys go, I think the changes are mostly positive. It will be interesting to see how the new guys do.

Tonight's contest against the Avalanche started with a special Olympic tribute to the players with both clubs who participated. I thought it a very classy gesture for the audience to give the Avs Olympians a rousing ovation before our own boys were honored.

Ducks Olympians given a special pre-game tribute

Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne, bronze medal winners

The Olympic medals and jerseys were also on display tonight behind section 212.

Seven medals for our Ducks, the most of any NHL team!

Play started off well for our hometown heroes. There was energy, aggressiveness, and lots of offensive zone puck possession in the first. Big kudos to Jason Blake who, I thought, really stepped up in this game. It was encouraging to see that second line, with Blake, Saku Koivu, and Teemu Selanne start to come together.

During a Ducks power play, a pass from Bobby to Blake on the side of the net segues into the veteran banging at the puck as it shot under Avs goaltender Craig Anderson. It squirts into the net as Blake is steamrolled by an Avs defender.

Early in the second, Selanne gets his 598th career goal. From an offensive rush (that is actually grossly offsides) consisting of slick tic-tac-toe passing from Saku to Blake to Selanne for a nice open-net pitch. I swear, Teemu is much more his high-producing self without that face grill on! (this is his first game back without the extra headgear)

Ducks extend their lead to 2-0.

Jonas Hiller, turning in a good game for the first half...

At this point, the Avs began their proverbial goal avalanche. Ducks defense all but disintegrated, and a litany of turnovers don't help. Jonas Hiller seemed a bit off too in the second half of the game. Numerous power play opportunities prove unfruitful. The offense tries repeatedly to score, Bobby gets robbed at least three times, and yours truly isn't the only one in attendance feeling the frustration.

Not to say the lack of production is entirely Anaheim's fault, goaltender Anderson is definitely standing on his head and coming up big tonight.

With amazing saves and acrobatics by Craig Anderson, the game's first star was well-deserved

The Avalanche would see four goals go up on the board before the Ducks would manage to net a third. And even that one did not come until the last four minutes of regulation, when Captain Scotty Niedermayer sends a puck into the crease and it bounces off an Av skate, through Anderson five-hole, and into the net.

Unfortunately, that goal isn't followed by an equalizer, and the Ducks would see their 12-game home streak snapped as they fall to the Avs, 3-4.

Yours truly will be reporting the next game from Phoenix, Arizona, with (hopefully) special Ducks and Coyotes coverage. That's a lot of hockey!

Team USA vs Team Canada for gold

2010-03-01T01:46:00.000-08:00

They couldn't have written this story any better if they'd tried.

It was the perfect matchup. Team USA, underdogs written off early in the tournament because they were too young. They had only three guys on the roster who had been in the Olympics before. Sure, they were NHLers, but most of them were under 25 years of age. What did they know about Olympic hockey?

Against Team Canada, the host team, the fathers of hockey. A roster packed with talent, NHL captains, winners of Olympics past. Not to mention, this was a team that had been completely embarrassed in their loss to Team USA during the preliminaries. They were angry, seeking revenge, hungry for the young Americans.

Yours truly was sadly at work during this game, but my phone buzzed constantly with texts from hockey friends and non-hockey friends alike. Even people not ordinarily fans of the sport during the NHL season had fallen in love with the hopes and dreams of these Olympic players.

They wanted to know how this one would turn out.

I was able to watch a good portion of the game with divided attention as I worked. The forechecking and backchecking pressure of the Americans was evident. The hunger and physicality of the Canadians was relentless. Each of these boys played the game of his life, and delivered some of the finest hockey I've ever seen.

Corey Perry would net one goal out of four SOG in this monumental game. Ryan Getzlaf would take an assist.

Despite falling behind for the first time in their Olympic run, the Americans didn't fall apart. They kept their focus, kept their composure, and kept coming. They closed the gap to one goal, and then a miracle.

With less than 30 seconds left in regulation, Zach Parise would deliver a simple strike in the crease that left a puck in the net behind Roberto Luongo.

Yours truly couldn't help but scream. My phone erupted in delight as well. The Americans had pushed the game into overtime! The gold would take more than 60 minutes to be won. How could anyone deny the drive and heart of Team USA?

Seven minutes of sudden death overtime would finally award the gold medal to Team Canada.

I can never stand to see the dejected faces of the losing team, and especially not when they're MY team. Sure, I was elated for our Canadian Ducks, but Team USA represented my country. I watched the medal ceremony with mixed emotions. Not being able to be completely happy for the beaming faces of Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, and Captain Scott Niedermayer, I was distracted by the misery of the loss etched onto the faces of my boy Bobby Ryan, Captain Jamie Langenbrunner, and especially MVP Ryan Miller.

To them, I want to say that I am so very proud of their effort. Nobody, hockey experts and casualists alike, would have ever guessed that Team USA would compete for gold, that these young boys would slaughter Team Finland in a 6-1 landslide, that they would completely humiliate these very Canadians with a 5-3 trouncing. Team USA has absolutely nothing to be sorry for. They went above and beyond all expectations. They captured the hearts of a nation and the attention of the world.

What you've done for the sport of hockey, is beyond words. There will be so many new fans watching as you return to your respective NHL teams to complete your season. And for all of us old fans, including yours truly, you gave us the opportunity time and time again to say, "This, this is why I LOVE hockey!"

Celebratory congratulations to Getzy, Pears, Scotty, and Team Canada! But heartfelt thank yous to Bobby, Ryan Whitney, and Team USA! Along with the pride felt for the valiant efforts of Jonas Hiller and Luca Sbisa with Team Switzerland, and Teemu Selanne and Saku Koivu with Team Finland, I am so very proud of all of our Olympic Ducks.

Seven Ducks will return home with Olympic medals, that's the most of any NHL team (San Jose comes in second with five). There's no way a team with such talented individuals can't put together a successful playoff run.

So how about it, boys? Let's go get Stanley!

Vancouver Olympics 2010 men's hockey in pictures

2010-02-27T23:29:00.000-08:00

Since yours truly couldn't attend any of the Olympic action in person to get great pictures (wouldn't that be the day!), the next best thing I can do is share the great shots taken by others. Here's a collection of my hockey favorites over the past two weeks... (my apologies that some of the larger pics don't quite fit)

Bobby celebrating his first Olympic goal against Swiss game #1

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Finland beats Belarus

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Teemu in the Finland vs Germany prelim game

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Winner Team USA, loser Team Canada prelim

Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images North America

Scotty, Getzy, and Perry celebrate after a goal against Slovakia

Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images North America

Bobby in Swiss #2 game

Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images North America

Bobby and Hiller in Swiss #2 game

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Hiller's crazy puck juggle from game Swiss/USA game #2. Puck would eventually go in behind Hiller, but not until after the horn

Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images North America

Luca Sbisa defending Kessel in game Swiss/USA #2

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Bobby and Hiller, final handshake, Swiss #2 game

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Goalie to goalie, Hiller and Miller after Swiss #2 game

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Corey Perry getting one past Naby in Canada vs Russia

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Corey Perry getting one past Bryz in Canada vs Russia

Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images North America

Saku celebrating win over Czech Republic with Kipper

Photo by Harry How/Getty Images North America

Bobby and Selanne shaking hands after US beats Finland

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Teemu, Saku, and Team Finland with Bronze (over Slovakia)

Photo by Harry How/Getty Images North America

Teemu with his Bronze

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Captain Koivu with his Bronze and Finland flag

Photo by Harry How/Getty Images North America

Getzy, Scotty, and Pears win the gold

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images North America

Team Finland vs Team Slovakia for bronze

2010-02-27T19:47:00.000-08:00

Yours truly is home in time for this game, and ready to live blog.

I don't know what's wrong with Team Finland, but the commentators are right. There's no urgency, no desperacy, no passion in their play.

And it seems to be translating into a lack of goals on the ice.

At the first intermission, the score stands 1-0 Finland.

On the power play in the 2nd, it starts to look like Team Slovakia want that bronze (it would be their first team medal ever) a little bit more. Nobody's watching Marian Gaborik and he sneaks into the defensive borders of the Finns. From there, he's able to wrist the puck straight in past Miikka Kiprusoff.

The Fins get a couple of power play chances to retake the lead, but are unable to capitalize. Instead, the Slovaks take advantage of some Finnish recklessness and pull ahead with a goal on a 5-on-3.

And again on a short-handed breakaway.

At the second intermission, things are looking bleak for Finland as they trail 1-3.

Yours truly is feeling absolutely bummed. The last Olympic games for Saku and Teemu, and this is how they're going to go out? Please no!

As the 3rd begins, the commentators are pointing out that Teemu has only had eight minutes of ice time. He's also spending the Finland power plays on the bench! If yours truly was the Finnish coach, I'd have my number one goal scorer out there on each and every power play. Don't worry about him, he wants to play!

On a Finnish 5-on-3, Suomi closes the gap with a deflected goal off of Niklas Hagman. Mere minutes later, Olli Jokinen nets another. The score is tied 3-3 with 13 minutes left in regulation.

Finland finds themselves on another power play, courtesy Hossa. Who should grab the puck and get on a breakaway but Jokinen again. He shoots and it's in!

Suomi has just now taken the lead, 4-3. Unbelieavable rally! Three goals in barely over three and a half minutes. Slovakia is reeling. Finns need to keep up the pressure.

Talk about keeping the fans on the edge of their seats, Team Finland has to fight through a penalty kill before the game ends. At one point, the equalizer is right at the Slovak fingertips, but Zednik can't pull the trigger.

In these final minutes, Kipper has GOT to come up huge. The Slovak net is empty with a minute left...

Kimmo sets up Valteri Filpula for the empty netter... and it's in!

Yours truly is just elated to watch the Finnish boys on the bench jumping and cheering and yelling at Filpula as he converges on the empty net. Watching them hug and clap each other on the back, I can't help but feel so good for Teemu as the cameras cut to him jumping up and down like a little boy, a huge smile on his face. The excitement just pours out of him.

Teemu, Saku, and SUOMI with the bronze! Way to go, guys! The big gold medal game is tomorrow, Team USA and Team Canada.

No matter who wins and who loses, Ducks came out winners these Olympics. They'll be bringing seven medals home to Anaheim!

Team Canada vs Team Slovakia Semifinal

2010-02-26T18:54:00.000-08:00

Don't count the Slovaks out just yet... after all, Sweden did, and where did that get them?

During the first period of this game, you can see why. Team Slovakia touts a good defensive system, collapsing down really low around the net.

It isn't until 14 minutes through the first that Shea Weber fires one from the point, which gets redirected by Patrick Marleau past the Slovak netminder. There's a review to make sure Marleau's redirect was below the crossbar, but it's pretty obvious that it was.

An assist for Captain Scotty Niedermayer.

Shortly after, great play by our Duck boys on the ice. Perry below the goal line fighting for a puck, getting it to Getzlaf who manages a pass under pressure to Pronger at the point. It's a patented Pronger rocket, with a redirection from Brendan Morrow in front.

Goal. 2-0. First intermission. Can I just say I've never missed Prongs and his point shots more than right now?

And boy, points for our Ducks in spades. Yours truly is pleased.

The Slovak goalie, Jaromir Halak, is good... but it appears that Team Canada has found his weakness: shots from the point or back from the blue line, with a well-placed deflection near the crease. Granted, those are difficult shots for any netminder to block, but both of Team Canada's goals came from that setup.

Halak denies the Canadians through most of the second, but what he really needs are his offense to get some pucks behind Roberto Luongo. Can't win if you can't score.

Before the end of the second, and on the power play at that, Prongs gets the puck to Perry who's skating up and down along the left wing, angling for passing lanes. He decides to fire on the net and the rebound comes out to Getzy who backhands it home from his knees.

It's a beautiful play, and it takes us into the second intermission with Canada leading 3-0.

The Slovaks haven't given up hope, however, and they are rewarded with a puck that squirts between Luongo's pads and the post. 3-1 Canada, with eight left in regulation.

Chants of "We want USA" echo around the arena. It's looking as if the gold medal game will be between Team USA and Team Canada...

Wait... maybe I've spoken too soon.

Michael Handzus bats one out of the air in the crease, and it's in behind Luongo. One-goal game with five minutes to go!

The Slovaks came on strong in the last few minutes. Lots of shots on Luongo, but Canada holds on. I don't know what it says that Canada let this one almost slip away, but maybe that's a good sign for the US come Sunday. Great game, Slovakia.

Team USA versus Team Canada for the gold. Hockey fans may have dreamed about this matchup, but who really thought it would happen?

Team USA vs Team Finland Semifinal

2010-02-26T12:07:00.000-08:00

Wow... action in the first three minutes of this game! Yours truly is blogging while watching, not always an easy thing to do, especially when the action comes as quickly as it has in the early minutes of the Team USA/Team Finland matchup.

Also known by Duck fans as: "I want to cheer for Team USA but I really want to see Teemu and Saku finally win gold for their last Olympics!"

Only two minutes into the game and Finnish netminder Miikka Kiprusoff makes a HUGE mistake. He comes out of the net to face a rolling puck, but turns it over to Ryan Malone just within the blue line, who slams it home to an empty net.

The Team USA bench bursts into cheers and elation.

The confidence is contagious, and you can practically see those young Americans swell with pride as they realize they might actually have a shot at this. My boy Bobby Ryan, as I suspected, is being used on a checking line along with other big boys David Backes and Ryan Callahan.

This is definitely an aggressive game. You need a big checking line when physicality counts as much as it does today.

I'm in awe watching this game. In the first period alone, it's a USA goal landslide.

Zach Parise...

Erik Johnson...

Patrick Kane... twice...

Paul Stasny...

And that's just within the first 13 minutes of this game. Of course, two Finnish penalties don't help Team Finland's cause.

Those of you watching this live with me, we are witnessing the complete disintegration of an Olympic hockey powerhouse. In a way, it's sad, because we have Ducks on this team too. And knowing this will be the last Olympics for Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne, a big part of yours truly wanted to see them finally win Gold.

I don't like faulting the goaltender, but in this case, I think it's hard not to. Kipper should not have started that ball rolling. He's pulled after the 4th USA goal, but the damage may have already been done. Niklas Backstrom takes over the Finland net, allows two more goals before the end of the first, but stops the bleeding at that.

The second period goes without many interuptions at all, and while Team USA has slowed some in their aggressiveness towards the net, they are still backchecking, still forechecking, still playing physically, and trying to stay out of the sin bin.

Team Finland is playing hard, but after being rattled so badly in the first, they can't seem to get many shots to Team USA netminder Ryan Miller.

Miller, by the way, is doing splendidly. Many have him pegged as the MVP for Team USA's effort.

During the third, the Finns come harder, but Miller denies every attempt. With about half the period to go, Miller is changed out for backup goalie Tim Thomas. Yours truly thought this a classy move, as Timmy has gone on record to say it has always been a dream of his to play in the Olympics. At age 35, one would suspect Thomas may not likely return in four years.

Miller is given high-fives and salutes on the bench as he prepares to watch the rest of the game with his mates. Bobby even retrieved a game puck to give to Miller as a token of his incredible 100+ minute Olympic shutout run.

A collective Duck-fan gasp sounded as Bobby was struck point blank by a puck to the left side of the head. He was able to get off the ice, and was shown hunched over on the bench with a bag of ice held against his ear. Luckily, the puck went off the helmet and there was no blood or broken bones.

Hey, we need that boy for our playoff run!

The Finns are rewarded for their efforts with a power play goal against Timmy with about five minutes left in regulation, but that's the only mark they'll make in this semifinal game.

The Americans trounce Finland in a 6-1 landslide and move on to the gold medal game this Sunday. Yours truly is happy... and sad at the same time.

Photo courtesy Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America

Some stats and numbers:
- Bobby spent 8:44 on the ice and had one shot on goal.
- Ryan Whitney spent 11:06 on the ice.
- Teemu had one shot on goal in 13:44 ice time.
- Saku had two shots on goal in 13:36 ice time.

Men's hockey Olympic quarterfinals

2010-02-24T23:26:00.000-08:00

Four big big games today, starting off with Team USA vs Team Switzerland (part 2).

Both teams start off with fires lit under them. The commentators are gushing over the energy of team USA, and while I can agree there's definitely energy, it's looking largely unfocused and reckless to me. Probably indicative of the young stars that make up the team, they're going to have to concentrate on connecting some plays and being a team if they hope to bring anything against Jonas Hiller.

The Swiss are also coming on with energy, but their offensive force is not nearly as big as their defense. Ryan Miller is forced to make a handful of good saves, but the Team USA defense has a way of blocking many of those shots before they even reach their intrepid netminder.

Put it this way. Hiller faced 42 shots as opposed to Miller's 19.

My boy Bobby Ryan only got eight and a half minutes of ice time, but he managed three shots on goal and some nice YouTube-able plays. Hiller played a phenomenal game. He definitely helped his team fight to the end.

There were no goals through two periods of play. Not until Zach Parise got one by Hiller did the momentum swing, and Team USA gave that extra push. Parise potted an empty netter with less than a minute left in regulation.

Team USA moves on to the quarterfinals.

By the way, I'd forgotten to mention that Bobby is also writing an Olympic blog (along with Hiller and Ryan Whitney). You can read his thoughts here.

Next up, the heavily commercialized game of Team Canada vs Team Russia. Sid vs Ovie... again.

Elimination rounds

2010-02-24T02:32:00.001-08:00

Two games to keep an eye on today, although one SHOULD be a no-brainer.

First up, Team Switzerland vs Team Belarus. The winner of this game will go on to play Team USA in the quarterfinals Wednesday. Yours truly was not able to watch this game (the job that pays the bills interfered), but it was my understanding that Jonas Hiller could have been much sharper between the pipes than he actually was.

In the end, it wouldn't matter. The Swiss squeezed out Belarus in a shootout, winning 3-2.

It'll be Hiller vs Bobby Ryan part two.

The next game on the Canada Place schedule was Team Canada vs Team Germany. After Canada's loss in regulation to USA on Sunday, you can bet the pressure was on to deliver against Germany. Shouldn't be a problem, right?

Martin Brodeur lost his opportunity to netmind, and Roberto Luongo would be the one in goal today. Team Canada redeemed themselves today, positively shredding Germany with a 8-2 win.

Our boys Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry looked good out there, despite neither recording any points. Getzy had one shot on goal, Perry had four. Captain Scott Niedermayer would net a goal.

If anyone is keeping count, as of today, I believe all of our hometown heroes have multiple Olypmic points to their names, with the exception of Hiller (obviously) and Ryan Whitney. I'll do a breakdown in the next post.

Team Canada will go on to play Team Russia in Wednesday's quarterfinals. Looks like another Sid vs. Ovie matchup!

Lots of hockey to be watched. Unfortunately, the television schedule has left much to be desired. The Team USA vs Team Switzerland quarterfinal will be aired on NBC at 3pm Pacific Time, but there's only a 2-hour time slot dedicated to it. Will they cut the game short??? How horrible!

The Team Canada vs Team Russia quarterfinal is scheduled to start at 4pm on CNBC. So of course, there's overlap... which makes it all but impossible for yours truly to record via VCR.

Following later in the day, Team Finland vs Team Czech.

I suppose I'll be refreshing the Olympic web page again and again.

Super-rink Sunday

2010-02-21T21:07:00.000-08:00

Forget the Superbowl, today is hockey's day.

There were three big games today, but I'll focus on the last two because those feature Duck players. Yes, I'm biased, but it's my blog and I can do whatever I want.

Yours truly attended a watch party for the big Team USA vs Team Canada game this afternoon. The location was my favorite local sports bar, Oggi's in Tustin. The atmosphere was pure electricity, as tons of hockey fans came out to cheer on their country of choice.

With Ducks on both Team USA and Team Canada, it felt a little like a win-win situation for yours truly. However, I'm known to be a sucker for underdogs (heck, I'm a Phoenix Coyotes fan for crying out loud), and my boy Bobby Ryan make the decision easy. Team USA all the way, baby.

In between the pipes, Team USA would stay with Ryan Miller. For Team Canada, Martin Brodeur would get the nod.

The game started off wonderfully with an early goal for Team USA courtesy Brian Rafalski. Further energized, Team USA went on to have a great first period. They played with confidence and speed, and the forecheck was incredibly effective. Team Canada could not even set up in the offensive zone.

Team Canada did get on the board before the first half of the period expired, with a goal by Eric Staal. But it was answered less than a minute later by a second goal from Rafalski.

Unbelievable game for Rafalski.

The holes in the defense had been addressed, it seemed, and they weren't as glaring in Team USA's game tonight. The defensemen were better distributed along the blue line, turnovers were better controlled, and I think Canada only got away with one odd-man rush the entire game.

The second period, for Team USA, looked a little more like a typical Anaheim Ducks' second period. The boys looked a bit slow, a bit caught back on their heels. Dany Heatley would take advantage and score for Canada, tying the game up 2-2.

Before the end of the period, a pinball play in front of Brodeur's crease would land a third goal for Team USA. Credit to Chris Drury, assists to David Backes and Bobby Ryan. Again, Team USA would take a one-goal lead into the locker room for the intermission.

A series of penalties for Team Canada drove the momentum back in Team USA's favor for the third period. The forecheck reappeared, some of the extra kick returned to Team USA's step. On the last USA power play, Captain Jamie Langenbrunner would give the US a 2-goal lead for the first time in the game.

And then Team USA would take two penalities of its own, allowing a goal in the last five seconds. Sidney Crosby, pulling the game once again down to one goal. It became a veritable shooting gallery around Ryan Miller, with a desparate Canadian team taking every possible shot.

With about a minute left in regulation, Brodeur was pulled for the extra attacker. Zach Parise and Ryan Kesler danced with the puck near the blue line. Kesler took off down the ice, as did his defender Corey Perry. Parise's shot sped past them. When it looked as if Perry had effectively kept Kesler away, the fallen American swung his stick, connected with the puck, and sent it into the far corner of the net.

Empty net goal! And in that moment, Team USA realized what it had done. Kesler was tackled by Parise, Langenbrunner, and Erik Johnson behind the Canada net. On the bench, guys were hugging and slapping each other on the back, smiles stretched wide across their young faces.

There were 45 seconds left in regulation, but Team Canada would fail to bring a tie. Team USA had done it, beating the favorite and creating a situation where either Team Canada or Team Russia would leave Vancouver empty handed.

Miller came up HUGE, especially in the last five of regulation. He would face 45 shots during this game, compared to Brodeur's 23.

A few Duck observations...

Bobby's ice time was considerably increased in this game, I'm happy to say. He played nearly 12 minutes, had two shots on goal and one assist.

Ryan Whitney got the least time on ice of any Team USA player, 5:22, and he was a -1.

This definitely wasn't Corey Perry's game. To add injury to insult, Perry collided at one point with Staal and, while crumpled on the ice, had Chris Pronger fall over them both. Perry left blood on the ice, but there would be no penalties as all of the players involved belonged to the same team! Not Canada's finest moment by far.

Both Perry and Ryan Getzlaf would fail to pen any goals or assists, but each served two penalty minutes and had one and three shots on goal, respectively.

Captain Canada, Scott Niedermayer, has played better games himself. I think Scotty showed some rare frustration, getting himself involved in post-whistle shoving scrums on more than one occasion. He had three shots on goal, was a -1, and saw 17 minutes of ice time (which, incidentally, is a lot less than Scotty is used to playing).

It was an incredible game, and the watch party atmosphere made it even more memorable for yours truly.

The game that followed could have also been a nail-biter. Team Finland and Team Sweden have had a very heated rivalry through many Olympics, including the gold medal game four years ago. Unfortunately, this game failed to meet most expectations.

I don't know what was wrong with Team Finland, but it seemed that nobody showed except for Tuomo Ruutu and goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff. He was able to stop the bleeding on a 0-3 meltdown by his countrymen, but with no effective attacks on net, Kipper couldn't exactly do anything about the bagel on the scoreboard.

With the preliminary rounds finished, the top four seeds go to USA, Sweden, Russia, and Finland (qualifying round). These four teams don't have to play in Tuesday's elimination rounds as they go straight through to the quarterfinals on Wednesday. The remaining eight teams will play Tuesday, with the top seed playing the bottommost seed, 2nd top playing the 2nd from bottom, etc.

- Czech vs Latvia
- Canada vs Germany
- Slovakia vs Norway
- Switzerland vs Belarus

The winners in these elimination rounds will go on to play the top four seeds on Wednesday. Yours truly will be posting the rest of the men's hockey schedule tomorrow.

The Finnish Flash strikes again

2010-02-19T22:22:00.000-08:00

History is being made, ladies and gentlemen.

In today's contest between Team Finland and Team Germany, Teemu Selanne would pen an assist. That puts his career point total to an Olympic record-breaking high of 37!!

That's our Finnish Flash!

Saku Koivu would also get an assist in this game.

Expecting Miikka Kiprusoff to be between the pipes, yours truly was a little surprised to see Niklas Backstrom. But Niki did well, blocking all 24 shots that he faced for his first Olympic shutout, 5-0.

Team Finland will face their biggest, bitterest rival, Team Sweden on Sunday. Don't forget, Sunday is also the day Team USA will face Team Canada.

More Olympic excitement to come!

Hits and misses, Olympic prelims

2010-02-19T00:37:00.000-08:00

Another big day of men's hockey for our Ducks Olympians, today would feature contests between Team USA and Team Norway, Team Canada and Team Switzerland.

In watching USA versus Norway, yours truly has a few notable observations. The offensive lines are looking like they're starting to gel a little bit. Today's game was definitely physical... Team USA's bigger boys weren't afraid to throw their weight around. Passing plays looked cleaner, and the team would benefit with goals.

Defensively, I think we have problems. As long as the puck is in the offensive zone, Team USA looks good. But as soon as they have to defend, there's way too much open ice. Not to mention, I don't think it helps that the defensemen have been joining the offensive rushes. You may get away with that in games against less talented teams, but once you start playing the big guns, you're going to need both D-men holding up that blue line. Without that, turnovers quickly become dangerous odd-man rushes.

This happened a number of times in today's game, and Ryan Miller did his best against the Norweigan forwards, but you're playing a numbers game. Give them too many good scoring chances, and they will eventually score.

Unfortunately, yours truly isn't feeling too confident about the netminding. I understand Ryan Miller is probably going to be starting for as long as we're winning, or something like that, but I was actually hoping Jonathan Quick would get an opportunity between the pipes. I'm just a tad bit more impressed with Quick's game than Miller's going into the Olympic break.

My boy Bobby Ryan got less than 10 minutes of ice time in today's game... can I ask why?

In any case, Team USA proves good enough to win today's contest, 6-1.

The next men's hockey game on the schedule would pit Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, and Scott Niedermayer against their fellow teammate, goaltender Jonas Hiller.

What did I say about underestimating Team Switzerland? Hiller and his incredible D would take Team Canada all the way through five minutes of sudden death overtime and into a shootout. Switzerland would fall 2-3 in that shootout.

Hiller had an absolutely phenomenal game, I wish he had been rewarded with a win. He faced 47 shots, stopping 44. And when you figure that it's guys like Sidney Crosby, Jerome Iginla, Ryan Getzlaf, and Dany Heatley firing these shots, Hiller's performance is even more remarkable.

The Swiss play a hard, gritty game. I give them very good chances of taking a win away when they play Norway next.

Honestly, if Team USA had the defensive core and netminding of Team Switzerland, they'd be a force to be reckoned with.

No goals or assists for any of our hometown heroes today.

On a sidenote, who wants to bet Jeremy Roenick will take Mike Milbury out before the end of the tournament?

Wins, Finns, and journalism spins

2010-02-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

The Team USA vs Team Switzerland match got men's ice hockey off to a good start, and the excitement would continue with the very next game.

Team Canada, with Ryan Getzlaf on the roster, took on Team Norway later that afternoon. Team Canada's roster looks like a veritable hockey all-stars team, what with Getzlaf, Corey Perry, and Captain Scott Niedermayer from the Anaheim Ducks, and league-known superstars like Sidney Crosby, Jerome Iginla, Dany Heatley, Joe Thornton, Rick Nash, Chris Pronger, and Jonathan Toews.

Vancouver Canucks' Roberto Luongo started in net for the Canadians, and got himself a shutout, 8-0. The game started off slowly, going scoreless into the first intermission, but play quickly picked up as players got comfortable.

Our three Ducks would come away with one point each, Getzy and Pears got goals, and Scotty an assist.

This morning, Team Finland took on Team Belarus. More points for our Ducks, Captain Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne would both get assists in this 5-1 win. Teemu is a bit of a legend in Olympic circles, holding 20 goals and 36 points in five Olympic appearances. He's now tied for the leading Olympic record for the most career points. Five more Olympic goals will tie him for the most career goals in the modern era (since the 1956 Olympics).

Can the Finnish Flash do it? Yours truly would say, if a broken hand and broken jaw can't keep him out of the Olympics, it's very possible he'll go on to tie that record.

Switching opponents, Team USA will take on Team Norway tomorrow. And Team Canada will face Jonas Hiller and Team Switzerland. The big game between USA and Canada will take place this Sunday, along with Team Finland versus rival Team Sweden.

A few of our Ducks have taken pen in hand to blog about their Olympic experiences. Ducks defenseman Ryan Whitney's blog can be found on the OC Register webpage, and netminder Jonas Hiller's blog can be found on the Ducks homepage.

Team USA vs Team Switzerland

2010-02-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

The very first men's hockey Olympic game is a big one: Team USA vs Team Switzerland.

Considered the underdogs against big guns Canada and Russia, Team USA gets to start against a team that shouldn't be underestimated. Team Switzerland will have none other than our Jonas Hiller between the pipes, and we know just how hot Hiller is right now.

Team USA features Buffalo Sabres' Ryan Miller in net. Miller has the second top save percentage in the league, but has been facing some difficulties as of late. Only three guys on Team USA have been here before. Both players from our Anaheim Ducks, Ryan Whitney and my boy Bobby Ryan, are looking at their Olympic debut.

What an amazing feeling it must be to represent your country with so many other talented players that you've only shared ice with as opponents.

It's a little bittersweet that Bobby and Whitney will be taking shots on Hiller, but that's how it goes. Another familiar face on the Swiss team, prospect Luca Sbisa!

In the first period, the teams are looking pretty evenly matched. The Swiss aren't afraid to play rough, laying hard hits and grinding in the corners. Team USA has had less time to play together, while the Swiss have had at least 40 games worth of practice, sans Hiller and Mark Streit who play in the NHL.

Hiller is looking very sharp between the pipes, he's playing a great game. Team USA is putting pucks on him, but he's holding strong.

With only about a minute left in the first, David Backes forces the puck away with an effective forecheck behind the Swiss net. Bobby takes a hit along the boards and the puck squirts to the defender at the blue line who shoots it at Hiller. It's fought off and, as it rolls away from the goal, Bobby catches it in the slot and fires it over Hiller's glove hand.

Like I was saying, bittersweet. But it's Bobby's first Olympic goal and it puts Team USA up 1-0 going into the first intermission.

Play in the second amps up a few notches, becoming much more physical. Backes scores for Team USA. And then Ryan Malone too on the power play. They are tough bids on net and nobody can fault Hiller for them. Everyone is skating better in the second. Team USA gains confidence with those goals, driving hard to the net, connecting passes.

The rest of the second goes goal-less, with the Swiss defense looking strong.

The Swiss offense kicks up in the third. They create some scoring chances for themselves, and Team USA appears to be caught on their heels. Miller is forced to make some big saves. Inevitably, Team Switzerland scores on the power play.

On a sidenote, I gotta say I really do miss Luca Sbisa. Can't wait until he's back up with the Ducks.

As Team USA regains their confidence, Hiller continues to come up big on the saves. You can tell, he's playing an awesome game, with a number of sweeping glove saves that plenty of players on the ice are sure to recognize. Nothing gets by him during the final period. It will be a loss for Team Switzerland, but Hiller had one heck of a game.

Team USA didn't have the most pristine play on the ice, there are definitely some aspects that these guys need to clean up before they take on Team Canada on Sunday. Turnovers are a problem, and the defense needs to really step things up, but for a team of young firecrackers, they can be proud of a win today, 3-1.