Power-Play Test Passed

There are many things the Mighty Ducks have struggled with in recent weeks, offense and defense topping the list. The one area, though, that has been top-notch is their penalty killing.

The Ducks faced their greatest test in that area against Minnesota on Tuesday. The Wild came in tied with Washington for the top power play in the NHL. The Wild left the game goal-less on seven chances.

The Ducks have allowed only three goals in the last 54 power plays, covering 12 games.

Dan Bylsma has been working overtime. He deflected two passes out of the Duck zone and blocked a shot on Wild power plays.

“He is very, very happy and willing to block shots,” Coach Bryan Murray said. “When a guy is courageous like that, it forces them to make passes they don’t necessarily want to make.”

TONIGHT

At Colorado, 6 p.m.

Fox Sports Net 2

Site--Pepsi Center.

Radio--XTRA (690).

Records--Ducks 10-18-4-3, Avalanche 19-13-3-0.

Record vs. Avalanche--0-1-1-0.

Update--The Ducks have enforcer Kevin Sawyer, one of their most consistent players, available tonight. He has served his five-game suspension. The Avalanche has looked more like the defending Stanley Cup champion in the last month, going 11-3-2 in its last 16 games.