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

Sep 28, 2014; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Francois Beauchemin (23) during a break in play against the Los Angeles Kings during the second period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

First Star: Francois Beauchemin, D (+1, 21:05 TOI, 3 Hits)

With the spectacular play of the blue-line, my first star had to go to a defenseman. Beauchemin was tremendous in helping the Ducks control the neutral zone: two separate times in the second period, he stopped Alexander Wennberg and Atkinson from pushing the puck past him, denying Columbus any chance to establish bodies and space in the Ducks’ defensive zone. His play was steady, and although he did not have a great statistical night in terms of points, the veteran was arguably the best Duck on the ice for the game, and he rightfully deserves to be recognized for it.