Ducks' Valiant Effort Falls Short in Shootout, Kings Prevail at Crypto.com Arena
In a closely contested battle at the Crypto.com Arena, the Anaheim Ducks' record now stands at 24-26 after a hard-fought game that ended in a 2-3 shootout loss to the Los Angeles Kings. The Kings improved their tally to 26-24 with this victory. Despite both teams showcasing resilience throughout regulation time and overtime, it was ultimately decided by the narrowest of margins in the shootout phase.
The Ducks opened up strong with a goal in the first period but were matched by one from the Kings. The second period mirrored the first with each team netting another goal apiece, leaving them tied as they headed into the third. Neither team managed to break through during that period or during overtime, leading to an intense shootout where every shot could tip the scales.
Anaheim's goaltender put on an impressive display between the pipes, saving 48 out of 50 shots during regulation and overtime combined—a save percentage rounded off to an impeccable hundred percent. However, despite his herculean efforts and two saves in three attempts during shootout, it wasn't enough as two goals slipped past him while Anaheim could only manage one successful attempt.
Offensively for Anaheim, their powerplay unit capitalized once out of two opportunities thanks to their five-on-four advantage lasting over two minutes. Their shorthanded play also contributed with one goal from just two shots when down a man. Overall shooting accuracy for Anaheim stood at eight percent as they made twenty-four attempts on goal throughout various strengths of play.
Defensively speaking, Anaheim blocked thirteen shots and delivered twenty hits across all periods while taking control of eighteen faceoffs won against thirty-eight lost—translating into thirty-two percent faceoff win efficiency. They also took five penalties amounting to ten penalty minutes but managed not to concede any powerplay goals.
On special teams performance for Los Angeles was notable; they converted twice on four powerplay chances which proved crucial given how tight this game was played out until its very end.
As fans look forward to more action-packed games from their team, they can mark their calendars for when Anaheim Ducks will host Nashville Predators at Honda Center on February 26th at 5:00 PM Pacific Time. This upcoming match will be available for viewing across multiple networks including ESPN+ online and BSW or BSSO television broadcasts.