The St. Louis Blues did not end 2014 on a good note, dropping five of their last six games. They could have asked for an easier start to the new year than coming to the Duckpond to face the Anaheim Ducks who are leading the NHL with their 54 points. The teams are tied at 1-1 in the season series with the home team winning each contest, and I think the hosts will prevail tonight as well.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. The Blues D - St. Louis defense has been in shambles lately, particularly on the road where its given up 17 goals over its last four games. Nashville was allowed to test Brian Elliott with no less than 47 shots Tuesday. A similar defensive display in front of Elliot tonight could end really bad, as he has struggled as it is against the Ducks going 0-5-2 with a 3.38 GAA over his last seven starts. Martin Brodeur and Jake Allen are other options to tend the net, but I would think the Blues will go with their star netminder now when healthy again.

2. Road Woes - The Blues have lost four consecutive games away from home and do not have a successful history in Anaheim, with the Ducks winning eight straight home meetings.

3. X-Factor - Corey Perry may not have impressed in his comeback Wednesday after missing almost a month of hockey, but that's to be expected. He should improve with each minute on the ice, and is certainly a player who has the x-factor in him.

Selection: This is a play on the Anaheim Ducks (Free)