After so many exceedingly awful games from the Ducks this season, it’s hard to find newwords to explain their performance.  Well, it’s hard to find words that aren’t completely inappropriate, but this isn’t the first time you’ve read that from me.

I’m disappointed in the name this team is making for themselves.  I’m disappointed that they are completely unreliable in the first 20 minutes of play.  If you’re looking for something stellar from the Ducks in the first period, don’t bother.  Right now they are averaging eight shots on goal in the first period.  That’s right, eight.  The number of first period goals?  Two.  That’s TWO first period goals TOTAL…in EIGHT GAMES!  Thank you for those, Corey Perry, but we’re going to need more.

I’m embarrassed at the offense that this team has on paper, but not on the ice.  The Ducks played over 122 consecutive minutes of scoreless hockey.  Ryan Carter‘s game winning second period goal against Minnesota on October 14th (15:11) was the last goal the Ducks scored before Ryan Getzlaf finally found the top shelf against the Dallas Stars at the end of the second period, Wednesday (17:52).

We’re watching strangers on the ice.  It’s painfully obvious they don’t know each other.  With new additions like Saku Koivu and Joffrey Lupul, offensively the Ducks are still working on their connection.  Even when you consider the Ducks top offensive line of Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, and Bobby Ryan, they didn’t play a full season together last year.  Not because Bobby Ryan didn’t play a full 82 games in the NHL, but because it took time before he was moved to the top line.

Likewise, on the defensive end, Scott Niedermayer is the only player who was on the Ducks roster for the full 82 games last season. 

Offensive components are there, but there is no chemistry on the ice.  What is the possible solution?  LET THEM PLAY.  I know, we might be subjected to a few more ugly games, but there needs to be time to develop said chemistry.  With Randy Carlyle constantly changing lines and making moves within the game to create a spark, it’s only creating more confusion.   

The Ducks are going to break through.  It seems crazy to think that right now with the way they are playing, but they have a very skilled team.  Unfortunately, right now, they’re playing as individuals.  Once this TEAM is able to find that connection, hopefully the Ducks and fans alike will be flooded with goals. 

Until then, hang tight fans, we are still able to say…”it’s early”.

GO DUCKS!!!