Anaheim Ducks Fight Back, Fall 3-2 in Overtime to New York Islanders

Third Star: Josh Manson, D (2 Hits, 2 Blocked Shots, 14:16 TOI)

Josh Manson, who is mostly just receiving playing time as a result of the injuries to Ben Lovejoy, Bryan Allen, and Mark Fistric, had a very good game for Anaheim. In limited action with Anaheim, Manson has been impressive, but has looked out of place at times. He has been caught puck-watching instead of covering his man on defense at times, but his play against New York was great. He made quick decisions with the puck instead of trying to skate out of trouble. He seemed to improve with each shift and was strong defensively and in the physical aspects of the game as well.

The converted defensive forward probably won’t be playing with the NHL club for too much longer once the three blue-liners on Injured Reserve return. However, Manson has gotten better with each shift and each game and really appears to have a good future in the NHL. Constant improvement is something all athletes and teams seek, and Manson turned that improvement into a wonderful performance. He definitely deserves to be recognized for it.