Ducks Fall to Toronto in Close Match
TORONTO — William Nylander netted the game-winning goal on a power play just 36 seconds into the third period, leading the Toronto Maple Leafs to a 6-4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday night. This marked a significant end to the team’s eight-game losing streak.
However, the night was marred by the injury of captain Auston Matthews, who suffered a knee-on-knee hit from Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas with four minutes remaining in the second period. Matthews remained on the ice, favoring his left leg, before being assisted off. Gudas received a major penalty and was ejected from the game.
Earlier in the match, Matthews broke a 12-game goal drought, contributing to the Maple Leafs’ offensive efforts. Matias Maccell recorded one goal and two assists, while John Tavares and Benoit-Olivier Groulx also found the net. Matthew Knies had three assists and an empty-net goal, with Nylander contributing two assists. Goaltender Joseph Woll was instrumental, making 36 saves throughout the match.
On the other side, Cutter Gauthier, Ian Moore, Pavel Mintyukov, and Alex Killorn scored for the Ducks, who currently lead the Pacific Division. Goaltender Lukas Dostal stopped 23 shots.
Despite the win, the Maple Leafs’ record of 1-6-2 since the Olympic break has dimmed hopes for their tenth consecutive playoff appearance. Thursday’s victory also marked their first home win since January 10.
