It’s a Powerful Concept
The Ducks’ power play clicked on two more goals in Friday’s 3-1 victory over San Jose and went into Saturday’s rematch against the Sharks ranked No. 1 in the NHL with a 21.8% efficiency rating.
“The power play has made a huge difference,†said right wing Teemu Selanne, who leads the league with 38 power-play points (18 goals, 20 assists).
“It’s a big thing to have a big power play and big penalty killing. This time of year, a lot of teams are battling for the playoffs, so this is like playoff hockey now. Special teams can be very important.
“With the guys we have I’m not surprised [how effective the power play has been]. Last year, we struggled. This year, it’s a pride thing. We get one or two power-play goals every game. That’s great.â€
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Center Steve Rucchin could not play Saturday after taking a shot to the head from San Jose’s Bryan Marchment on Friday. Rucchin is still recovering from a broken nose suffered Feb. 17 against the Edmonton Oilers.
As he did in the latter half of Friday’s game, Travis Green replaced Rucchin as the top line’s center Saturday against the Sharks.
“He’s a big part of this team,†Selanne said of Rucchin. “He signed a big contract and he wants to earn every penny of it. He took another step up [in his game] this season.â€
Of Green’s performance Friday, Selanne said, “He did everything. He was hitting. He was scoring goals. He was winning faceoffs.â€
Go beyond the scoreboard
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