Stand Against Stars Boosts Confidence

They have three more chances against the Dallas Stars before the season ends, but the Mighty Ducks’ 2-1 victory Monday over the Pacific Division leaders did as much for their psyche as it did for their place in the standings -- the two points propelling them into the Western Conference playoff picture.

The Ducks had lost all four previous meetings this season to the Stars, including a 4-3 shootout defeat Jan. 6 despite leading, 3-0, in the first period. Players and coaches agreed that they needed to make a stand against a longtime nemesis.

“These guys have had our number since I’ve been with the Ducks,” goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere said. “They play well. They’re a veteran team with lots of experience out there. It just shows we can do anything, any place.”

Until Monday, the Ducks had won only five of 29 regular-season games in Dallas.

In the series, the Stars have compiled a 36-17-5-1 record. On Monday, the Ducks’ lack of success became a rallying point.

“We talked about it before the game,” said Andy McDonald, whose 25th goal tied the game early in the third period. “We knew our record coming in; we hadn’t beat them this year. We definitely wanted to come out with a better effort than in the past four games.”

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TONIGHT

vs. Colorado, 7:30, FSNW2

Site -- Arrowhead Pond.

Radio -- 1540.

Records -- Ducks 34-21-12, Avalanche 38-25-6.

Record vs. Avalanche -- 0-2-0.

Update -- Colorado is in fifth place in the West but only two points behind Calgary for the Northwest Division lead. Forward Alex Tanguay, who leads the Avalanche with 74 points, is out two to four weeks because of a sprained knee. Venerable captain Joe Sakic scored two goals in a 5-0 victory over the Kings on Monday.

Tickets -- (877) 945-3946.