Anaheim Ducks Blow Lead, Lose 4-3 in Shootout to Calgary Flames

Nov 18, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames goalie Jonas Hiller (1) guards his net as Calgary Flames defenseman T.J. Brodie (7) and defenseman Mark Giordano (5) and Anaheim Ducks left wing Matt Beleskey (39) and right wing Kyle Palmieri (21) battle for the puck during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Third Star: Kyle Palmieri, RW (1 G, 3 SOG, 5 Hits, 15:51 TOI)

Palmieri was excellent for the Ducks. He’s an aggressive player, especially offensively, and he was constantly looking to generate chances. Playing on a line with Kesler and Beleskey, Palmieri used his speed and pulled the trigger often. He tied with Beleskey for the team lead with five hits while controlling 66.67% of the shot attempts at even strength when on the ice (12 shot attempts for, six shot attempts against).

Palmieri, despite missing the first 18 games with an injury, has a chance to establish himself on the top-six here. One thing he has always been able to do is score goals. He had a strong showing tonight and would have been higher had he not taken two minor penalties. Palmieri adds another dimension to the Ducks’ forward group, and he’s making an impact early in his return.