Game Preview: Ducks vs. Blues
As the Ducks prepare to host the St. Louis Blues, they are determined to bounce back from a disappointing game against the San Jose Sharks, where they suffered a heart-wrenching 4-3 defeat. In that match, they allowed two crucial goals in the final moments of the third period, a late-game stumble that left head coach Joel Quenneville frustrated.
“It hurt leaving points on the board,” Quenneville reflected. “We played well for the majority, controlling the lead, but those late breakdowns cost us the game. However, we’ve had good fortune on our side this season, so it’s a lesson learned.”
Blues’ Setback and Ducks’ Optimism
The Blues are also seeking to recover after experiencing their own setback, losing 2-1 to the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday. Ducks forward Alex Killorn echoed Quenneville’s sentiments, acknowledging the importance of the game’s details, stating,
“We had a good game except for a couple of late lapses, which obviously hurt us. But today is a new day.”
NHL Debut of Nathan Gaucher
A bright spot for the Ducks has been Nathan Gaucher, who made his NHL debut in the Sharks game, playing just over seven minutes on the ice. The 2022 first-round draft pick, playing on the fourth line alongside Mason McTavish and Frank Vatrano, is seen as a vital new presence. Quenneville praised Gaucher’s strong debut, highlighting his physicality and right-handed shooting ability while noting that he had potential scoring opportunities.
“He gives us some size and can help on faceoffs,” Quenneville explained.
Gaucher’s ascension to the NHL comes after amassing nearly 200 games in the AHL, where he recently enjoyed a scoring streak, netting 14 points in 18 contests. Expressing his gratitude for the promotion, Gaucher stated,
“All the hard work I put in is for this reason; you want to play at this level with the best. I’m just thankful and excited to join this team.”
Playoff Push and Upcoming Lineups
Currently, the Ducks are in a tight race for the top spot in the Pacific Division, sitting tied with the Edmonton Oilers. They are aware of the significance of their upcoming games, especially with the playoff push underway, and they also face pressure from the Vegas Golden Knights, who are just behind them at three points. Killorn reflected on the importance of this time in the season, noting that experiences like these are crucial for the younger players and create excitement for the fans.
As the game against the Blues approaches, the anticipated lineups for both teams are shaping up: The Ducks are expected to pair Chris Kreider with Leo Carlsson and Troy Terry, with Killorn, Washe, and Granlund in the middle lines, among others. Meanwhile, the Blues will feature players like Dylan Holloway and Robert Thomas in their lineup.
Ducks fans are optimistic that the team can harness their lessons learned from recent games and capitalize on the home advantage during this critical homestand.
