The Anaheim Ducks Take A Chance
After a difficult season with the Flyers, things didn’t seem to be getting any better for the goalie. Emery was diagnosed with avascular necrosis in his hip. The ailment happens when there is a lack of blood supply to the bone and causes the bone tissue to die. It’s the same condition that Bo Jackson of the L.A. Raiders developed. He would eventually require surgery to slow down the progression. After spending months rehabilitating his hip, he was finally able to get back into game shape.
During the 2010-11 season, the Anaheim Ducks found themselves in a bind. Jonas Hiller was out of the line up due to recurring dizzy spells and fatigue. The Ducks didn’t have much confidence in backup Curtis McElhinney. He wasn’t doing the job in the net, and the Anaheim Ducks needed to find another goalie to fill in. On February 7, 2011, the Ducks took a risk and signed Ray Emery.
During his short stint in Anaheim, he began to find himself again. During the regular season, he only played 10 games ending with a 7-2-0 record, 2.28 GAA, and .926 SV%.
Emery became the Ducks number one, goalie heading into the 2011 conference quarter-finals against Nashville, starting all six games. It was a short-lived playoff run that season. The Predators won the series 4-2. Nevertheless, Emery was a true picture of perseverance, determination, and dedication while he was a part of the Anaheim Ducks franchise.
"“We are all deeply saddened by the loss of Ray Emery. When he joined us in 2011, Ray made an immediate impact on our team with his inspiring comeback from a debilitating injury, one that rightfully earned him a Masterton Trophy nomination. He was a fierce competitor and his infectious attitude will not be forgoten. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.” – Public statement by Bob Murray, General Manager of the Anaheim Ducks."