Now we’re talking.

There is nothing better than coming home after a long road trip and winning at home. 

Last night’s victory was essential for the Ducks as 9 of their next 10 games are at home.  This home swing is a chance for the Ducks to make a strong push in the Western Conference early. 

Last night, we saw the first steps in the right direction…

Redemption: The Ducks were able to redeem themselves against the Wild.  After handing over the game last Tuesday in Minnesota, the Ducks needed to prove that was a mistake they won’t let happen again.  The final score (2-3) is somewhat misleading as the Ducks were far more impressive against the Wild this time around. 

Winning at home: Last season the Ducks struggled at home.  When they started this season off with a loss at home to the San Jose Sharks, fans (myself included) were worried that we might be seeing a replay of last season.  Last nights’ victory is hopefully an indication that the Ducks are heading in the right direction. 

Turning the negative into positive:  The Ducks have been struggling in the first period of games so far this season.  Their last game against the New York Rangers saw them take only 1 shot on goal in the first period. In addition, until last night they had been scoreless in the first period.  Corey Perry so beautifully turned all of that around for the Ducks scoring two early goals.  Other negatives turned positive include seeing the Ducks successfully kill all 4 shorthanded opportunities, and greatly increase their own power play opportunities. 

The biggest factor in last night’s win were the guys who stepped up, the guys who’s names aren’t plastered on score sheets and don’t make the headlines night after night.  

For the first time since he’s been on the Ducks roster, Erik Christensen had a great game.  I don’t know if Randy Carlyle is planning on keeping him on the second line with Teemu Selanne and Saku Koivu, but after last night’s game, he’s definitely made a great case for himself.  Likewise, it was the first time that entire line was clicking.  I’m excited to see what Christensen can do, and for the first time in a long while, he’s probably completely healthy and able to show what he’s got.

Just moments before he scored the game winning goal, I said…”Ryan Carter is having a great night.”  He was playing physical, putting pressure on the Wild, and creating turnovers.  The 4th line of Ryan Carter, George Parros, and Mike Brown are showing signs of chemistry, and it’s great to know that if those guys have an offensive opportunity, they’re going to muscle their way in and capitalize.  Mini was upset that Carter messed up “her” natural hat trick.  I had to remind her that, A) Perry didn’t get a hat trick (of any kind); B) she isn’t on the team and; C) if it wasn’t for Carter’s goal…the game would have gone into overtime. So…HA!

Also, Joffrey Lupul, who had some quality chances throughout the game, is starting to look more at home here in Anaheim.  While he may be seeing less ice time on the third line along Todd Marchant and Evgeny Artyukhin, it might possibly be a fit for him.  If these line stick for the next few games, the Ducks might be looking at the potential to have 3 scoring lines.  Having offensive depth is never something I’ll complain about. 

Finally, Corey Perry.  Perry has learned to be very patient with the puck.  As if the fans needed to be reminded, Perry is an outstanding player, and is certainly taking charge of the first line.  Perry’s first goal was just fantastic.  His finish…even flashier as he tucked his sword stick into his side.  The second of his goals…just as patient, just as beautiful. 

The top line is taking it’s time finding their groove, but it will come.  However, I’m still concerned about Ryan Getzlaf.  Maybe he’s just frustrating me, but I can’t help but think that something isn’t quite right.  Or maybe I’m just hoping that if I complain about it enough, he’ll eventually prove me wrong.  It’s quite possible that he’s still not 100% form the off season surgery, but for some reason that seems ridiculous to me.  I find it hard to believe that the team would be jeopardizing Getzlaf’s health for the entire season for these first few games.  If it simply meant having him sit out the first 6 or 7 games to get some more rest, so be it.  I’d rather have a healthy Getzlaf for the remaining 75 games than have him worsen over the course of the season.  Like I said, maybe it’s just me, but something is missing in his game right now.   

In the end, the most impressive showing of the night might have to go to Scott Niedermayer who was on the ice for over 29 minutes last night. Wow.  

Keep it up boys, there’s much more to come. 

GO DUCKS!!!