Vancouver at Anaheim

The long and winding road for Anaheim is over, home from a brutal five-game road trip to open the season. Yes, this is their home opener. Unfortunately, the road trek took its toll, losing four of five. The offense has been terrible, #28 in goals scored, #24 on the power play (2 goals on 18 chances), while the defense has been in the middle of the pack. Undisciplined play, disorganization on offense, and the lack of forechecking have defined Anaheim's poor start. Off the ice, the Ducks and 22-year old defenseman Hampus Lindholm remain at an impasse in contract negotiations. Since entering the NHL in 2013-14, Lindholm has been a steady two-way contributor for the Ducks. Anaheim has been short-handed 25 times, second only to Calgary (31). Things don't get any easier here as they face a Vancouver team that is 4-0-1. Only the Canucks and the Montreal Canadiens have yet to lose in regulation, with the Canucks ranked second in the NHL in goals allowed. They've been winning without much help from former Vezina Trophy Goalie Ryan Miller, who makes just his second start of the season tonight. Also, the Canucks are 11-5 following OT on the previous day. Play Vancouver.