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Takeaways from the Ducks 4-2 Loss to the Flames

The Anaheim Ducks’ recent struggles with forward depth took center stage in their 4-2 loss to the Calgary Flames on Tuesday night, a result that underscored the team’s defensive vulnerabilities. Injuries to key players Cutter Gauthier (upper-body, day-to-day) and Ryan Poehling (MCL sprain, 6-8 weeks) forced Anaheim to reshuffle its lineup, recalling top prospect Roger McQueen from the AHL and debuting defenseman Drew Helleson after a season-ending lower-body injury.

Despite these adjustments, the Ducks struggled to generate high-quality scoring chances, with only one or two players consistently contributing offensively. Calgary, one of only three winless teams in the NHL, capitalized on Anaheim’s defensive lapses, particularly in breakout situations and decision-making in their own zone, where Poehling’s absence was keenly felt.

Goaltender Lukas Dostal made 32 saves but faced 35 shots, while the Flames’ Dustin Wolf stopped 22 of 24 in a game where Anaheim’s fatigue and lack of secondary scoring proved decisive. Coach Joel Quenneville noted the Ducks’ struggles with puck possession and lane coverage, calling it a game where they left points on the table despite not conceding an excessive number of chances.

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