Western Conference Quarterfinals: Jonas Hiller’s Strong Effort Not Enough As Detroit Red Wings Beat Anaheim Ducks in OT
By Kris Hill
Red Wings Dominate Time In Offensive Zone
May 6, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Anaheim Ducks left wing Matt Beleskey (39) attempts to score on Detroit Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard (35) as defenseman Brian Lashoff (23) defends in overtime in game four of the first round of the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs at Joe Louis Arena. Detroit won 3-2 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Detroit, MI – The Detroit Red Wings had something to prove tonight. They not only proved they would not be trampled on, but that this Western Conference Quarterfinal series is still very much up for grabs. Detroit spent much of the 75+ minutes on offense.
First Period:
The first period saw the Ducks get the lead despite being outshot and out hit in the period. Matt Beleskey was able to get his second of this young postseason at the 5:07 mark in the first. Johan Franzen was called for interference in the closing minute of the opening frame.
Second Period:
Despite starting on the man advantage, the Ducks were unable to capitalize. Near the six-minute mark, Todd Bertuzzi was called for boarding, but again the Anaheim was unable to score. Jonas Hiller made up for some shoddy defense by stopping 27 shots in the first two frames.
Third Period:
In the third period, the teams continued their struggle. Brendan Smith ended the 100+ minute scoring drought for Detroit. Smith’s goal came 1:18 into the third. Francois Beauchemin was called for tripping. Anaheim’s PK continued to be stout. Daniel Winnik had a great short handed chance by shooting from his back on the ice. Corey Perry could not figure out how to slip one past Jimmy Howard after multiple chances. David Steckel was credited with his first goal at the 10:40 mark after Emerson Etem was the presumed scorer. Hiller showed off some magician skills that was reviewed and confirmed as a chorus of “Fertilizer” (as Vin Scully likes to put it) rained down when Franzen attempted to tie the game. Pavel Datsyuk evened up the game at the 13:27 mark securing the trip to overtime and free hockey.
Overtime:
In free frame, the Red Wings continued their offensive zone domination even after Joakim Andersson was called for a high-stick. After using a poke-check, Hiller wasn’t able to get back in time to save a Damien Brunner rebound which won the game for the Ducks
Game Statistics:
SCORING BY PERIOD:
SOG:
Hits By Period:
Blocks By Period:
Power Play Efficiency:
Other Statistics:
Three Stars:
The Ducks continue the series Wednesday night at home at 7:00 p.m. PST.