Ducks Struggle Offensively, Senators’ Defense Continues to Falter
Anaheim Ducks’ Offensive Struggles and Defensive Gaps Put Them at a Disadvantage
The Anaheim Ducks (10-12-4) and Ottawa Senators (12-13-2) are both struggling to turn their seasons around, each sitting in unfavorable positions in their respective divisions. While Anaheim has the worst record in the Pacific Division, Ottawa finds itself mired in mediocrity in the Atlantic Division. In this matchup, both teams will be hoping to address their glaring weaknesses—Anaheim’s offensive impotence and Ottawa’s leaky defense.
Anaheim Ducks: Offense in Shambles, Defense Unable to Pick Up the Slack
The Anaheim Ducks have been undermined by a woeful offense, averaging just 2.42 goals per game—one of the lowest in the league. Their scoring drought is especially evident in recent games, with only four goals in their last three outings. Troy Terry, Frank Vatrano, and Ryan Strome have been the lone bright spots on offense, combining for 19 goals and 27 assists. However, the rest of the offense has been virtually non-existent, with only four other skaters managing to score five or more goals.
This lack of scoring depth has allowed opponents to focus their defensive efforts on limiting the top line, making it difficult for the Ducks to generate consistent offense. Anaheim’s struggles are not confined to the offensive zone—the defense has also been a point of concern. The Ducks have allowed 3.00 goals per game, ranking them near the bottom of the NHL in this category.
Defensive pairs like Olen Zellweger and Brian Dumoulin have combined for 6.5 defensive point shares, but beyond them, the rest of the unit has been porous, allowing too many quality chances and open shots on net. Despite the struggles in front of him, goaltender Lukas Dostal has been a bright spot, posting a solid .921 save percentage and a 2.67 goals-against average (GAA). Dostal has faced 541 shots so far this season and has saved 10.8 goals above average, keeping Anaheim in several games despite the overall team shortcomings.
Ottawa Senators: Offensive Surge Masked by Defensive Vulnerabilities
The Ottawa Senators have shown promise offensively, averaging 3.04 goals per game, thanks to standout performances from Tim Stützle, Brady Tkachuk, and Drake Batherson. Together, this trio has contributed 32 goals and 59 assists, and they have received valuable secondary scoring from Joshua Norris, Claude Giroux, and Adam Gaudette, who have added another 32 goals and 19 assists. Even defensemen Thomas Chabot and Jake Sanderson have been involved offensively, registering 2 goals and 25 assists combined from the point.
However, while the offense has been clicking, Ottawa’s defense continues to be a major issue, allowing 3.15 goals per game—ranking them among the worst in the league. Despite the solid individual performances of defensemen like Chabot and Nick Jensen, who have combined for 8.9 defensive point shares, the Senators’ defensive unit as a whole has struggled to contain opposing offenses. Ottawa has allowed far too many scoring opportunities and has frequently been beaten by quick transitions and high-quality shots.
In goal, Linus Ullmark has not been able to mask the defensive gaps, posting a subpar .898 save percentage and a 2.81 GAA on 443 shots. With a negative goals saved above average (-1.0), Ullmark’s struggles have only highlighted the larger defensive issues facing the team.
Conclusion
With both teams struggling to find consistency on either end of the ice, this game presents an opportunity for one to step up and secure a much-needed win. The Anaheim Ducks will need to break through Ottawa’s weak defense, while the Ottawa Senators will hope their offensive firepower can outpace Anaheim’s defensive efforts.
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