VIDEO: Kesler Nets First Goal of The Season; Ducks Lose In Shootout

Photo by David Bloom/Edmonton Sun

By Michael Walters

The Anaheim Ducks faced the Edmonton Oilers for the first time this season since the playoffs last season. John Gibson went in net against Cam Talbot. The Oilers were without Patrick Maroon, who was suspended two games for his hit on Drew Doughty.

First Period

The Ducks got off to a slow start as they were outshot 13-2 in the period. Both teams had power play chances and didn’t convert. Gibson had to make a few quality saves to keep the game scoreless after the first twenty minutes.

Second Period

The Ducks came out strong in the second period, but it was the Oilers that struck first in this game. Connor McDavid led the charge on a 3-on-1 and found Kris Russell open, who scored to give the Oilers the early 1-0 lead. The Oilers were penalized at the end of the period and the Ducks started the 3rd period on the power play.

Third Period

The Ducks were able to get the game-tying power play goal as Ryan Kesler tipped a Cam Fowler shot just 18 seconds into the period. There was some confusion as to whether Kesler or Jakob Silfverberg should be credited with the goal, but replay showed it would be Kesler’s first goal of the season. The Oilers were awarded a power play in the final seconds of the game, which carried over to the overtime.

Overtime/Shootout

The Ducks survived a 4-on-3 Edmonton power play to start the overtime and then had to finish the final 22 seconds shorthanded as well to force a shootout. In the shootout, the Oilers scored twice and only Rickard Rakell scored for the Ducks. Silfverberg had the last chance for Anaheim, but his shot hit the post and stayed out.  Edmonton ended up winning 2-1.

Game/Team Notes

Ryan Kesler scored his first goal of the season.

Andrew Cogliano played in his 500th game as a member of the Anaheim Ducks.

Corey Perry could return next week against Los Angeles if he doesn’t play tomorrow against Calgary. He has practiced with the team for the past couple of days.

The Ducks will have their mandatory scheduled break starting after the game against Calgary.

What’s Next?

The Ducks are not practicing today as they will face the Flames at 7 PM PT tomorrow in Calgary.

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January 5th, 2018