UPDATE: The Anaheim Ducks’ impressive seven-game winning streak came to a sudden halt as they fell to the Colorado Avalanche, 4-1, on October 31, 2023. In a thrilling matchup between the Western Conference’s top teams, the Avalanche showcased their dominance, leaving fans buzzing.
Gabriel Landeskog made headlines by scoring his first goal of the season, a pivotal second-period shot that propelled Colorado to a 2-1 lead. This marked Landeskog’s first regular-season goal since March 5, 2022, after enduring multiple knee surgeries that sidelined him for the entirety of the previous two seasons. The home crowd erupted with chants of “Landy,” celebrating the 32-year-old’s triumphant return.
Scott Wedgewood was a wall in goal for Colorado, stopping 35 of 36 shots faced, marking his NHL-leading tenth win of the season. This was the seventh time in 14 starts that Wedgewood has allowed one or fewer goals, solidifying his place as a key player.
Artturi Lehkonen, Martin Necas, and Parker Kelly each added goals for the Avalanche, with Lehkonen striking just 28 seconds into the first period. Nathan MacKinnon shone with three assists, bringing his season total to an impressive 32 points, the highest in the NHL.
The loss for the Ducks not only ended their seven-game win streak but also saw Leo Carlsson, the 20-year-old sensation, score his sixth goal in four games. This achievement also marked his 100th career point, making him the youngest player in Ducks history to reach this significant milestone. Troy Terry contributed with his team-leading 15th assist on Carlsson’s goal.
Lukas Dostal, in goal for Anaheim, made 32 saves, but the Ducks struggled offensively, matching their season-low score. Coming into this game, Anaheim boasted an NHL-best average of 4.13 goals per game, but the Avalanche defense proved too formidable.
With the victory, Colorado improved to 6-0-1 in their last seven games and extended their dominance over Anaheim, boasting a record of 16-1-2 in their last 19 matchups. Fans and analysts alike are left eager to see how the Ducks will respond after this setback.
What’s next? The Ducks will need to regroup quickly as they look to bounce back in their upcoming games. Meanwhile, the Avalanche will aim to maintain their momentum as they continue their push for the top of the standings.
Stay tuned for more updates as both teams navigate the thrilling landscape of the NHL season.