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

Nov 18, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Josh Manson (42) and Calgary Flames left wing Lance Bouma (17) battle for the puck during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

First Star: Josh Manson, D (2 SOG, 2 Blocked Shots, 1 Takeaway, 23:48 TOI)

Josh Manson keeps improving and proving that he has a place in the NHL, whether it is later this season or in the future. Manson was second on the team in total ice time, playing just under 24 minutes, including over two minutes shorthanded. He made some nice offensive plays with the puck, joining the rush and generating quality chances. He played solid defense on the night, as he and Lindholm were the only defensemen not to finish with a negative rating on the night.

Manson isn’t going to put up gaudy point totals in his NHL career, and he’s not going to be a superstar. However, he’s a dependable, stay-at-home presence on the back end who is capable of initiating offense, lay the body, and defend. He’s come a long way since his NHL debut on Halloween, and if not a regular by the trade deadline, he could be playing full-time in Anaheim next season.