Anaheim Ducks Lose Focus, Fall 3-2 to Arizona Coyotes in Shootout

November 7, 2014; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks left wing Matt Beleskey (39) moves in for a shot on goal against the defense of Arizona Coyotes right wing Shane Doan (19) during the second period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Second Star: Matt Beleskey (1 G, 4 SOG, 3 Hits, 71.79 CF% (5-on-5), 18:32 TOI)

Beleskey continues to have a terrific start to the season. He scored nine goals in 55 games last season and has a career high of 11, but Beleskey already has seven goals in 15 games this season. Before, most of Beleskey’s goals would come through sheer will, doggedly winning the puck and converting. This season, Beleskey has added more skill and improved his shot, which has made him a definitive candidate to fill out one of the top-six spots.

Beleskey played his style of game to give the Ducks a major boost. Like Kesler, he is a hard-working player in the corners, and he threw his body around. Beleskey was the driving force for the Ducks against the Islanders on Wednesday, and he was so on Friday as well. The Ducks, with Beleskey on the ice at even strength, controlled north of 71% of all shot attempts at even strength (28 for, 11 against). Beleskey is in a contract year, and if this level of play continues, he will be rewarded with a great contract in free agency after this season.