The Anaheim Ducks are closing in on a Pacific Division title as they sit comfortably in second place in the Western Conference. A division title could mean home ice for the playoffs. The team hopes that its recent success over the Edmonton Oilers continues Monday night as the two teams meet up for the first time this season. The Oilers' season has been a struggle and a win over a top team like the Ducks could give them momentum to finish strong and earn a long awaited playoff berth.
The Ducks are coming off a shootout victory over Western Conference rivals, the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday night. It was a game that could be seen later on in the playoffs. While the status of captain Ryan Getzlaf and starting goalie Jonas Hiller are unclear, other players have been filling in the pieces to keep the team winning. Backup goalie Viktor Fasth has stepped in for Hiller since March 31. He faced 38 shots on Sunday, including two in the shootout. It is still up in the air as to who will start on Monday. Forward Matt Beleskey and defenseman Sheldon Souray have four points each in the past four games, helping fill the void of the injured Getzlaf.
Edmonton is attempting its first playoff berth since reaching the Stanley Cup finals in 2006. They are currently four points behind the eighth place Detroit, so a win on Monday is crucial. They are coming off a loss against the Kings on Saturday where they were outshot 39 to 24, losing 4-1. A postseason push will not be easy for the team in a competitive Western Conference. They will play their final seven of nine games at home which will help in the effort. Justin Schultz should be a help. The rookie has six goals and 14 assists in 38 games this season. The Oilers also get back defenseman Mark Fistric for the first time this season. The team is currently ranked in the top ten in both the power play and penalty kill statistical categories.
The Oilers and Ducks will also face off for back-to-back games on April 21-22. Anaheim is 11 for 13 against the Oilers. However, Edmonton holds the most recent win in the Anaheim series, defeating the team 2-1 back on April 1 of 2012.
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