Pivotal Five-Game Eastern Conference Road-Trip for Anaheim Ducks
By Jason Byun
Mar 20, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks left wing Patrick Maroon (19) congratulates right wing Corey Perry (10) after Perry scored the game winning goal in overtime to beat the Colorado Avalanche 3-2 at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
With just nine games remaining in the regular season, the Anaheim Ducks will begin their final extended road-trip when they begin a five-game swing against Eastern Conference foes on Sunday. The Ducks can continue to make their push to secure a playoff spot (the Ducks are currently six points from clinching a postseason berth and ten points from clinching the Pacific Division). However, these are important tune-up games for the Ducks, as the team needs to continue elevating its level of play as the postseason draws nearer.
While the Ducks can do that against anybody they face, the important distinction between the opponents on this road-trip and the other four teams is that all of the Ducks’ remaining opponents who are in playoff contention will be on this road-trip. The best way to get ready for the playoffs is to play at the highest level against teams in a similar position. The Ducks will face pivotal tests against three opponents on this trip: the New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, and New York Islanders.
Next: Game 1: New York Rangers