The Anaheim Ducks learned a tough lesson in their last outing, and now they must quickly apply it when they host the Vegas Golden Knights for Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals on Sunday.
Vegas dominated with a 6-2 win on Friday, taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. The game showcased a veteran team raising its level against a younger opponent.
“We’re still learning, still have things we need to be better at because we know they’ll respond,” Ducks defenseman Jackson LaCombe said. “They’re an experienced team. Win or lose, we have to play our best next game.”
Anaheim controlled the pace in the first two games with their speed, but on Friday, Vegas scored just over a minute into the contest, doubled the lead with a shorthanded goal midway through the first period, and never let go.
“It wasn’t a great start,” Ducks forward Alex Killorn said. “They score in the first five minutes and then get a PK goal. It’s tough to win when you put yourself in that position.”
Another concern for Anaheim is their struggling power play. After converting 50% of chances against Edmonton (8-for-16) in the first round, the Ducks are 0-for-11 against Vegas.
“They played well, but I don’t think we brought our best,” Killorn added. “They’re a great team; we just need a better start and more consistent effort.”
Coach Joel Quenneville confirmed Saturday that goalie Lukas Dostal will start Game 4. Dostal, who has started every playoff game, was pulled after the first period in Game 3.
The Golden Knights raised their game but know the Ducks can quickly regain momentum. Vegas must avoid complacency.
“Not all problems are solved because you win a game,” said Golden Knights coach John Tortorella. “You have to keep trying to improve. I think we entered the series on Friday playing our game a bit more, but we need to keep getting better.”
Tortorella declined to update the status of captain Mark Stone, who left Friday’s game near the end of the first period. “I’m not giving any injury updates, so stop asking,” he said.
Fortunately for Vegas, Mitch Marner recorded his first career playoff hat trick, putting him atop the postseason scoring list with 13 points (six goals, seven assists).
“I try to be an energizer, a guy who brings passion and energy,” Marner said. “Obviously, I always want the puck on my tape and to make plays.”
Regardless of Stone’s availability, the Golden Knights need more contributions. Tomas Hertl hasn’t scored in 29 games, last lighting the lamp on March 4 for his 24th goal of the season.
“There are areas where we still need to be more consistent,” Tortorella said. “We hope a few players get going. It’s Game 4, and as the series tightens, momentum swings and hockey gets more desperate. We’ll get ready and try to play the right way.”
