First Period:
Luckily for the Ducks the Philadelphia Flyers are out of Anaheim, and a familiar foe took their place. A depleted Detroit team was exactly what the doctor ordered to gain some defensive zone confidence.
The first five minutes of the game did not have a single whistle, which gave the opening frame a tremendous pace. Both teams were forced to create a fluid rhythm. Somehow this did not translate into accurate passing. Neither team was able to consistently hold onto the puck. Turnover after turnover led to the occasional scoring chance against.
Nick Ritchie was able to capitalize on one such Detroit turnover to open the scoring.