The Anaheim Ducks secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights on March 10, 2024, completing a season sweep of their three-game series. Chris Kreider played a pivotal role, scoring two goals, while Lukas Dostal made 27 saves to help the Ducks achieve their eighth win in ten games.
Kreider opened the scoring late in the first period when a shot from Ryan Poehling deflected off his leg and into the net. He then extended the lead with a tipped goal early in the second, marking his first multi-goal game since joining Anaheim from the New York Rangers last June. A few minutes later, Cutter Gauthier scored his 24th goal, capitalizing on a power play to push the Ducks ahead 3-0.
The Golden Knights, struggling with their form, fought back as Mitch Marner found the net, taking advantage of a fortunate bounce. Ivan Barbashev added another goal in the third period, tapping home a loose puck in the crease, but it was not enough to overcome the Ducks’ early lead.
Dostal’s efforts in goal were crucial as he faced a barrage from Vegas in the final period. Despite the Golden Knights controlling much of the third, Ryan Poehling sealed the Ducks’ win with an empty-net goal, ensuring they remained ahead.
The Golden Knights have now lost five consecutive games and seven of their last eight. This recent downturn follows a brief surge where they won eight out of ten games. Their current struggles put them in a difficult position as they prepare to host the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday.
For the Ducks, the victory marked an important moment as they returned from a five-game road trip to a home crowd, achieving their eighth consecutive sellout. Troy Terry made his return from an 11-game absence due to an upper-body injury, and Mason McTavish was also back after missing five games.
Anaheim will continue their homestand by hosting the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday, looking to extend their winning streak and capitalize on their home advantage. The Ducks are set to play their next road game on March 10, 2024, marking a significant shift in schedule as they focus on solidifying their performance in front of their fans.
