Ducks Return Home After 4 Nations Face-Off
On November 5, 2024, the Anaheim Ducks took on the Vancouver Canucks at Honda Center in their first home game since the 4 Nations Face-Off. The Ducks, who were coming off a 3-2 loss to the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday, faced a tough challenge as they aimed to improve their standings in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Canucks, fresh from a 3-2 overtime win against the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday, were riding a wave of confidence and momentum. The stakes were high, particularly as the Canucks held the second Wild Card spot, making this game crucial for the Ducks’ wild card aspirations.
Carlsson’s Stellar Performance Post-Tournament
Leo Carlsson, the Ducks’ center, has been turning heads with his exceptional play. Representing Team Sweden at the 4 Nations Face-Off, Carlsson managed to maintain his top form upon returning to Anaheim. He contributed points in all three games of the Ducks’ recent road trip against the Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, and Buffalo Sabres. Head coach Greg Cronin noted a significant improvement in Carlsson’s game, praising him for his speed and willingness to drive to the inside ice. “He’s got the puck, and his shirt is flapping behind him and looks like Mike Modano,” Cronin said, emphasizing how Carlsson’s newfound aggression and speed are making a difference. Carlsson’s ability to get into scoring areas, whether with or without the puck, is crucial for the Ducks as they push for playoff contention.
The Importance of Thursday’s Game
With the Ducks currently eight points behind the final Wild Card spot, every game holds immense significance. The loss to the Sabres, where they squandered a 2-0 lead late in the third period, was particularly painful. "We just got reaching and we had no legs," Cronin reflected. "You step back and you don’t think about it because you’re in the battle. You’ve got three (games) in four (nights) right out of the gate. We played at 7 (in Boston) and then at 6 (in Detroit). People forget that. Then, you get to Buffalo, and it’s weird. It’s hard to explain it, but you feel a little bit off." Despite the initial set-back, the team showed resilience in the second period against Buffalo, only to falter again in the third. Cronin highlighted the need for mental toughness and better puck management during energy-draining periods. “We didn’t get out of our zone, so (Buffalo) got the two goals. That adds more speed and confidence to their game and they rode it,” he added. The Ducks will need to carry this lesson forward to avoid similar pitfalls.
Challenges and Opportunities
The Ducks are now deep into a critical stretch of their season, with only 25 games remaining. The pressure is mounting, but the team remains determined. Coach Cronin has been working closely with Carlsson, urging him to stay firm in the middle of the ice. “The big thing for him that’s really going to be a core part of his growth is getting into those areas with or without the puck and staying firm in the middle of the ice. You need to get to those areas to score goals. It’s as simple as that,” Cronin explained. Carlsson’s recent performances, including a rebound goal in Boston and a power-play goal in Buffalo, demonstrate his potential. The Ducks are banking on Carlsson and other young talents to step up and make the most of these opportunities.
Penalty Issues Re-Emerge
Since returning from the 4 Nations Face-Off break, the Ducks have encountered a resurgence of penalty issues. In their recent games, they have struggled to stay out of the box, which has only added to the challenges they face. Robby Fabbri, a key player, played just 6:20 in the loss to Buffalo before suffering an upper-body injury. He was subsequently placed on injured reserve, and the team recalled Sam Colangelo from the San Diego Gulls to fill the void. Colangelo, who has 35 points in 38 AHL games and was named to the AHL All-Star Game, brings a promising offensive presence. This is his third call-up of the season, and he has one point in 12 NHL games, primarily in a bottom-6 role. “The second time I got sent down, I was a little disappointed,” Colangelo admitted. “But when I got (back to San Diego), I saw there was a big change in the group. We started to get more confidence, and it’s been great, especially the last month or so.” His experience and strong performance in the AHL are expected to inject a much-needed boost into the Ducks’ lineup.
Colangelo’s Role and Expectations
Sam Colangelo skated in Fabbri’s place alongside Cutter Gauthier and Isac Lundeström during Thursday’s morning skate. Coach Cronin emphasized the importance of Colangelo’s role, highlighting his need to be quick and assertive. “(Colangelo’s) got to get up and down the ice quick. He’s a big body, he can score. In the American League, I think he’s first or second in goals-per-game. He’s been up here and down, so he’s kind of been the back and forth (guy). But that’s a pretty impressive accomplishment for a rookie. He’s still a 23-year-old kid. He can skate, and I think sometimes (players) come up and they don’t want to make mistakes. He’s gotta wash that narrative out of his head. He’s just gotta play on his toes,” Cronin stressed. Colangelo’s adaptability and scoring prowess could be vital as the Ducks look to clinch a playoff spot. The young forward is eager to contribute and hopes to make the most of his opportunity, bringing his confidence and tenacity to the Ducks’ line-up.
