Ducks Tie It Up 1-1, But Bobby’s Channeling A Bad Influence

Ducks came out strong in game two, but seemed to lose most of their steam about the mid third period. Also in evidence was some obviously bad sportsmanship (again) committed by the Preds (once again targeting Selanne), blind and/or oblivious officials (bad calls/non-calls) and I guess Bobby Ryan had reached the end of his tether when he stomped on Jonathon Blum’s instep during a tangle up behind the net late in the third.

Remind you of anyone?

Ryan’s been suspended for two games and it’s interesting to contrast and compare the quotes for the reason behind the indent. From the Los Angeles Times: “He shoved me.” And from the Ducks official site: “”I had tried four or five times in the pile-up there to kick the puck loose and the last time I raised my foot a little higher and just turned my foot at the wrong time and came down right on top of him. The intent was good, the result was bad is basically the best way to put it.”

The incident wasn’t called on the ice and even the Ducks commentators didn’t seem to notice, but someone caught it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7MEmL6EqOs

You decide. OOPS! Or intentional?

Brandon McMillan will most likely fill in, but this is a huge blow to a team that needs every advantage it can get.

I just hope Cam Fowler doesn’t become the next target for the wrecking crew. We certainly cannot afford to lose him as well.

Oh, by the way, is it just me, or was the officiating during the first two games simply beyond negligent?

Okay, gotta go prep for today’s bloodbath. Happy Hockey!