Red Wings storm back after throwing away lead in regulation.
There was no greater example of NHL Playoffs ice hockey than the final 22 minutes of action between the Detroit Red Wings and Anaheim Ducks on Thursday night.
Detroit evened the series 1-1 following an overtime power-play goal from Gustav Nyquist which handed them a 5-4 victory, but they almost surrendered a commanding lead in regulation.
Leading 4-1 after an early goal from Johan Franzen in the third period, the Red Wings conceded three goals in a phenomenal surge from Anaheim in the final minutes.
However, a penalty by Sheldon Souray allowed Nyquist the opportunity to seal the win, and he obliged to set up a thrilling contest in Game 3 at Joe Louis Arena on Saturday night.
Jimmy Howard made 28 saves for Detroit and will again be key in their next meeting, however coach Mike Babcock will be without defenseman Danny DeKeyser for the rest of the season after he suffered a broken thumb.
While Detroit will be delighted to secure the win, it was an enthralling clash that is likely to set the tone for the remainder of the series as the final minutes of the game encapsulated the intensity and entertainment provided by this rivalry.
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