Ducks out-finish Blues and ride efficient defence to controlled road victory
Date: December 02, 2025 · Author: IHM News
Anaheim left St. Louis with a 41-4 win built on patience, defensive efficiency and superior finishing. The Ducks were outshot 22-26 in total attempts on goal but converted four times for a 15.38% shooting rate, while the Blues managed just one goal on 22 shots (4.55%).
St. Louis threw their bodies in front of pucks, totaling 22 blocked shots to Anaheim’s 8, yet that sacrifice didn’t translate into control. When the Ducks did break through, they generated cleaner looks and forced the Blues’ goaltender into difficult lateral movements. Anaheim’s own goaltending stayed sharp with 21 saves and a 95.45% save percentage.
Despite the Blues’ effort in the defensive zone, they struggled to turn stops into attack. Anaheim matched them in shots off target (14-14) but was far more deliberate in choosing lanes and driving through the inside lanes with support.
Key Match Metrics
- Shots on Goal: Blues 22 – 26 Ducks
- Shots off Target: 14 – 14
- Shooting %: 4.55% – 15.38%
- Blocked Shots: 22 – 8
- Goaltender Saves: 22 – 21
- Save %: 88.00% – 95.45%
- Penalties: 3 – 6
- PIM: 6 – 12
Coach Mark Comment
The Blues paid the physical price with a lot of shot blocks but couldn’t turn that work into offence. Anaheim’s structure was calmer, and their goaltending backed it up. It’s a classic example of how shot blocks alone don’t win games without transition support.
Questions & Answers | IHM Performance Metrics
Q1: Why did Anaheim win despite fewer blocked shots?
Because they protected the slot with better positioning and finished a higher percentage of their chances.
Q2: How did goaltending influence this game?
The Ducks’ goalie delivered a 95.45% performance, giving them confidence to play assertive in front.
Q3: Did St. Louis defend poorly?
Effort wasn’t the problem – structure and exits were. They blocked many shots but couldn’t exit cleanly.
Q4: What role did discipline play?
Anaheim took more penalties yet managed the damage with strong kills and quick clears.
Q5: What is the main fix for the Blues?
Sharper puck movement after stops; they need to turn blocks into controlled breakouts and odd-man rushes.