A week before the playoffs began, I wrote that I liked our chances in a seven game series against anyone. At the time I was talking about the Sharks, and now I am referring to the Wings. After a few below average games, the Ducks were able to tighten their chin straps and beat the Red Wings in game six, forcing a seventh and deciding game in the series. All that stands between the conference finals is 60 minutes of hockey. The Ducks need to play with the same force and intensity (Scott Neidermeyer) they exhibited in last nights battle. Game seven is the time to leave it all on the ice. Some might say that the Duck’s playoffs were the weeks leading up to the playoffs. Some will say it was against the Sharks, or maybe even the Red Wings. Truth of the matter is that these playoffs are against themselves. The Ducks have to dig deep and fight off complacency, and fatigue. They have to fight off sitting back on their heels and allowing teams to out skate them. They have to fight off allowing soft goals. Yes the Ducks are facing an even greater opponent, than the ones dressed in red and white. The good news is that, this is a familiar opponent, one that can be used in their own favor. The bad news, is that the Ducks must battle this same opponent, in order to get past Thursday, past the conference finals and beyond. I’ve seen the Ducks do it before…..its the playoffs, anything can happen.
Popularity: 16% [?]