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Anaheim Ducks and Montreal Canadiens: A Duel at Bell Centre Ends in Shootout

The Anaheim Ducks, with a record of 10-12-4, faced off against the Montreal Canadiens, who stood at 11-14-3, in a closely contested match that ended with the Canadiens edging out the Ducks 3-2 after a decisive shootout. The game took place at the Bell Centre in Montreal, drawing an attendance of 21,105 fans who witnessed every moment of this intense matchup.


Dec 23, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks right wing Frank Vatrano (77) celebrates his goal scored against the Seattle Kraken during the second period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Ducks' Performance Highlights


The Ducks showcased their resilience throughout the game. They managed to score once in each of the first two periods, demonstrating their offensive capabilities. Troy Terry was particularly outstanding for Anaheim, netting both goals for his team and proving to be a critical player on ice with his sharp shooting percentage of 33 percent over six shots. His performance not only highlighted his scoring ability but also underscored his importance to the team's offensive strategies.


On defense and special teams play, Anaheim displayed mixed results. The team successfully blocked 11 shots and delivered a total of 30 hits against their opponents. Their powerplay unit managed to convert one out of three opportunities into a goal thanks to precise coordination leading to effective puck movement and shot selection. However, despite these efforts on special teams play and even strength situations where they scored one goal from open play, it wasn't enough to secure victory.


Goalie Lukas Dostal was another standout performer for Anaheim with an impressive showing between the pipes. Dostal made 19 saves throughout regulation time and overtime on 21 shots against him for a save percentage rounding up to an impeccable hundred percent under pressure situations including even-strength plays where he stopped all but one shot directed at him.


Canadiens' Counterattack


The Canadiens matched up well against their visitors from Anaheim. Like their counterparts, they also found success early by scoring once in each of the first two periods before heading into overtime tied at two apiece. Their powerplay unit capitalized on one out of two chances given which played a crucial role in keeping them competitive throughout regular time.


Patrik Laine emerged as one star player for Montreal by earning himself one star recognition due to his impactful presence on ice that contributed significantly towards pushing his team across the finish line during shootout rounds alongside goalie Sam Montembeault who made key saves when it mattered most ensuring victory for The Habs.


Looking Ahead


After this hard-fought battle at Bell Centre which saw them narrowly miss out on additional points through shootout loss; Anaheim Ducks will now turn their focus towards upcoming challenge as they are scheduled face Ottawa Senators away from home Canadian Tire Centre located Ottawa ON December 11th starting from7:30 PM EDT Fans can catch action live ESPN+, Victory+, KCOP-TV ensure they don't miss any part exciting encounter between these two teams aiming bounce back strong following respective performances last games played


We encourage readers share this article get word out about what promises be another intriguing contest NHL calendar

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