Anaheim Ducks Dominate From Outset, Crush Blue Jackets 4-1

Oct 13, 2014; Buffalo, NY, USA; Anaheim Ducks right wing Devante Smith-Pelly (12) looks to pass against the Buffalo Sabres at First Niagara Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Second Star: Devante Smith-Pelly, LW/RW (1 G, +1, 13:54 TOI, 6 Hits)

Smith-Pelly really established the tone of the game by dishing and absorbing hits. The Blue Jackets are a team that loves to play physical and wear opponents out, and then capitalize on the accumulated wear-and-tear by converting turnovers that are made as the opponent takes a beating. Smith-Pelly used that same strategy against Columbus, who had played the night before, by dishing out six hits and continuing to play well whenever he got checked by the Blue Jackets.

Smith-Pelly also scored a goal, and his effort and strong play on the top-line has been encouraging with the absence of Patrick Maroon. The Ducks have needed young players to step up and effectively fill the spots on the top-six with Getzlaf, Perry, and Kesler. So far, Smith-Pelly has done just that.