The Anaheim Ducks picked up a quick 6-5 home win against the Atlantic Division leading Buffalo Sabers, before heading out on a three-game western Canadian road trip. With the win, the Ducks retained first place in the Pacific Division, as the Edmonton Oilers were idle and the Vegas Golden Knights still remained four points back, even after downing the Dallas Stars. The Ducks were finally able to break through with their much-maligned powerplay, Troy Terry kept up his torrid scoring pace, and Mikael Granlund further established himself as the best option for the number two center role.
Powerplay break through
Heading into the game against the Sabres, the powerplay of the Ducks was a major area of concern, as it was ranked 27th in the NHL with a 16.