The Anaheim Ducks demonstrated their ability to thrive under pressure with a dramatic 5-4 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Kings on March 15, 2024. This win marked their fifth multi-goal comeback of the season and showcased their talent for scoring crucial goals, particularly with an empty net. The Ducks now embark on a challenging back-to-back road trip, facing the Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues in the coming days.
The Ducks’ performance this season has been characterized by resilience, particularly in high-stakes situations. They currently share the league lead with the Kings for the most goals scored with an extra skater, totaling five. In contrast, the two teams have experienced differing outcomes in overtime and shootouts. The Ducks hold an impressive record of 6-0-1 in games that extend beyond regulation, while the Kings have won just four of their eleven such encounters.
Coach Joel Quenneville, who previously led the Blackhawks from 2008 to 2018 and the Blues from 1996 to 2004, has been instrumental in shaping the team’s approach. He emphasized the need for a purposeful game, stating, “We like fast-paced, but I don’t want to say I want a track meet. When you’re behind, you don’t mind it, but when you’re playing with the lead or it’s tied, there’s got to be a purpose.” Under his leadership, the Ducks aim to maintain their offensive momentum while ensuring they control the puck effectively.
Despite facing challenges early in the season, including injuries and a series of losses, the Ducks have rebounded strongly. Their earlier struggles included eight consecutive regulation losses after a promising start of 9-6-0. Currently, their record stands at 11-3-1 after 15 games, reflecting a revitalized roster and a commitment from management to foster player development.
The Ducks have had to navigate several difficulties, including falling behind in games. They have managed to score first in only one-third of their matches, and in those games, they have emerged victorious. Chris Kreider, a winger for the team, remarked, “We’ve had a lot of interesting games, spotting teams leads. Good job at coming back and fighting back. It’s probably not a lot of fun for the coaches, but probably fun for the fans.”
As the Ducks prepare for their upcoming matches in Chicago and St. Louis, they will need to adapt to the absence of goalie Lukáš Dostál, who is sidelined for two to three weeks due to a shoulder injury. In his stead, Petr Mrázek is likely to start against the Blackhawks, while Ville Husso is expected to take the net in St. Louis, where he began his NHL career.
Kreider highlighted the importance of supporting their goaltenders, stating, “We’ve had great goaltending all season. We’ve got to continue to try to help out our goaltenders, because we ask a lot from them every single game.”
As the Ducks look to build on their recent success, the upcoming games will test their resolve and ability to perform under pressure. Fans eagerly await to see if the team can continue their winning ways against two formidable rivals.
