Thrilling Matchup: Ducks vs. Golden Knights
In a thrilling matchup on Sunday night, the Anaheim Ducks triumphed over the Vegas Golden Knights with a score of 4-3, securing their third straight win against the Knights this season. Chris Kreider was a standout performer for the Ducks, netting two goals, while Lukas Dostal anchored the defense with 27 crucial saves. Despite holding a commanding 3-0 lead at one point, Anaheim nearly faltered in the third period as Vegas pressed fiercely for a comeback.
Key Performances and Highlights
Cutter Gauthier added to the Ducks’ scoring with his 24th goal, and Ryan Poehling sealed the victory with an empty-net goal. This win marks Anaheim’s eighth victory in their last ten games and highlights their improved performance as they embark on a lengthy run of home games, following a five-game road trip.
The Golden Knights, on the other hand, continued their downward spiral, suffering their fifth consecutive defeat. Mitch Marner and Ivan Barbashev both scored for Vegas, extending their goal streaks to three games, but it was not enough to turn the tide as the team has struggled with consistency, racking up seven losses in their last eight games.
Game Summary
Kreider opened the scoring late in the first period after a puck deflected off Poehling and into his path, while he doubled his tally early in the second with a deft tip-in, marking his first multigoal game since early November. Gauthier’s power-play goal showcased Anaheim’s current prowess on the man advantage, as they have now scored in their last five attempts.
Vegas regained momentum in the third, with Barbashev capitalizing on a rebound after Dostal could not control a shot from Jack Eichel, but the Ducks held on for the victory. Notably, Troy Terry made his return from an upper-body injury after missing 11 games, while Mason McTavish also returned from a five-game absence, adding depth to the Ducks’ lineup.
Looking Ahead
The win was celebrated by a sold-out crowd, as Anaheim gears up for an upcoming home game against Seattle, with their next road game not scheduled until March 10.
