3 Reasons Why the Anaheim Ducks Will Defeat the Chicago Blackhawks in Seven Games

Mar 26, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Anaheim Ducks center

(15) is hugged by right wing

(10) after scoring the game winning goal on Boston Bruins goalie

(40) during the overtime period at TD Banknorth Garden. The Anaheim Ducks won 3-2 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Getzlaf and Perry are THE Best 1-2 Punch in the Playoffs

Sure, the Blackhawks have Toews and Kane, but the Ducks have the best starting forwards in the NHL right now.

For starters, Perry is playing at a ridiculously high level right now.   He has 7 goals (2nd), 15 points (1st), +8 rating (2nd), 6.0 goals created (1st), 2 game-winning goals (2nd) and 1.67 points per game (1st) in nine games, and is the most efficient scorer in the NHL:

As unstoppable as Perry has been, I would actually argue that his linemate Ryan Getzlaf is making just as good a case to be a contender for the Conn Smythe Trophy.  The captain leads the NHL in assists (10) this postseason, and is invaluable on both the Ducks power play and penalty kill.   Keep in mind that the Ducks’ had a pretty crappy power play during the regular season, scoring on only 15.68% of their man advantages during the regular season (the league average was 18.66% according to hockey-reference.com).

In the playoffs?  The Ducks have the best power play to be found, finding twine 31% of the time.  And the Ducks’ 87.1% success rate at killing off penalties is due in large part to the work that Getzlaf puts in when Anaheim finds itself short-handed.

So far, neither Winnipeg nor the Flames were able to slow these two guys down.  The way they are clicking, I don’t see Chicago being able to shut them down, either.

Next: Ducks Defense? Positively Offensive!