Anaheim Ducks Lose Focus, Fall 3-2 to Arizona Coyotes in Shootout
By Jason Byun
November 7, 2014; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks center Ryan Kesler (17) moves in for a shot on goal as Arizona Coyotes defenseman Connor Murphy (5) helps goalie Mike Smith (41) defend during the second period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Third Star: Ryan Kesler (1 A, 6 SOG, 3 Hits, 63.2% FO %, , 72.22 CF% (5-on-5), 21:51 TOI)
Kesler was just terrific. He was a force in the corners, winning puck battles and constantly generating offensive opportunities for himself and his linemates. Kesler won 12 of 19 draws against an Arizona team that was third in the league in faceoff win percentage, including Hanzal, who had a 70.1 faceoff win percentage entering Friday’s game.
Kesler’s line was the best unit on the ice. At even strength, the Ducks controlled 72.22% of all shot attempts with Kesler on the ice (Ducks attempted 26 total shots, while the Coyotes only managed 10 on the other end). The line was great on the forecheck, causing turnovers, and Kesler was a huge part of it all.