The Anaheim Ducks are set to take on the Florida Panthers for the second time in just a week, following their recent victory where they edged out the Panthers 3-2 in a tightly contested shootout. The Ducks are riding high after a convincing 4-1 win against the New Jersey Devils on Sunday, and are aiming to build on their success, which could mark a season-high four-game winning streak.
Ducks head coach Joel Quenneville has acknowledged the challenges posed by the Panthers, highlighting their strong team dynamics and positional play. “(The Panthers are) a dangerous team,” said Quenneville. “They play such a strong team game… It’s going to be a tight game. It’s a hard game. Got to be respectful for these guys.” He noted that while the Panthers are missing key players, their well-structured system allows them to remain competitive.
Forward Alex Killorn also weighed in, emphasizing the resilience of the Panthers. “They won two cups,” he stated, “even when you take certain players out, they still play kind of the same way and they’re very effective.” This resilience, according to Killorn, indicates the quality of the Panthers as a team.
The Ducks will maintain the lineup from their last triumph over the Devils, featuring Jansen Harkins on a revamped fourth line alongside Ross Johnston and Frank Vatrano. Harkins, who made a significant impact with a strong hit during the last game, has been praised for his energy and contribution to the team’s offensive pressure.
While Ryan Strome remains sidelined with an upper-body injury, he participated in the morning skate and is expected to accompany the team on their upcoming road trip to Dallas and Vegas. Ducks fans are also poised to see goalkeeper Lukáš Dostál, who recently earned recognition as the NHL’s First Star of the Week after a stellar performance with a 3-0-0 record, a 1.63 GAA, and a .948 save percentage.
The projected lineups for both teams reflect the ongoing adjustments each has made, particularly the Ducks, who are looking to harness their current momentum.
The atmosphere is charged as both teams prepare for an exciting matchup, with the Ducks keen to capitalize on their recent form while the Panthers aim to leave a mark despite their injury challenges. This game promises to be another intense encounter between two competitive clubs, each striving for dominance on the ice.