At 1-6-2, the Anaheim Ducks have already dug a sizable hole in the race for a playoff spot. Tonight in St. Louis, they need a win, and badly.
“The level of urgency is as high as you can be,” coach Bruce Boudreau told the Ducks’ website. “There are only so many points on the table in 82 games. You have to start putting games together. If you have to get 99 points to get into the playoffs, that’s 47 wins for us right now. That’s not an easy task.”
To match the 45-30-7 record the Flames squeaked into the playoffs with last year, the Ducks would need to go 44-24-5 over 73 games.
That’s why Boudreau’s seat is as warm as it’s been during his time in Anaheim. Another loss tonight and all eyes will be on GM Bob Murray.
The Ducks return home after tonight’s game. They host Nashville on Sunday.