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Detroit vs Anaheim - DVR vs. extra coffee |
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Ville Husso was returned to Grand Rapids so it looks like we’ll be seeing Lyon in net soon. With Talbot’s play in Pittsburgh it wouldn’t be a shock to see him in net again tonight. The game starts at 10 p.m. EST, so you can decide if you’ll stay up and get an I.V. Of coffee for Saturday fall cleanup or if you’ll watch in the morning via replay or DVR.
Detroit, stat wise, measures up well against an Anaheim team that has some decisions to make. Cam Fowler has made it clear he is “over” being part of a rebuild and wants a shot at playing for a cup (sorry H2). Still, while in California maybe the team can pick up an old defensive buddy, say “I’m sorry”, and watch a sunset together over a trade back (not likely).
For the numbers:
Power Play: 25.6% DET. 11.8% ANA
Penalty kill: 66.7% DET. 70.7% ANA
Faceoff: 51.4% DET. 42.7% ANA
GF/GP: 2.47 DET. 2.2 ANA
GA/GP: 3.00 DET. 3.07 ANA
There’s only one category where Anaheim has the edge and that’s the PK with Detroit having the 3rd worst in the league and the Ducks having the 4th worst. The Detroit power play has found some legs and (along with Talbot’s performances) gives the team opportunities even when they are outplay (sometimes badly).
Detroit needs to win this game. The road trip could also help solidify the team. We saw a West Coast sweep last year help to galvanize the crew, but there are major deficiencies that may not improve without personnel changes.
Let me know your thoughts on what we’ll see from Detroit in California and if there is (in anyone’s opinion) a chance for a deal to be made. Enjoy the late night puck drop if you can!