Lukas Dostal Shines with 40 Saves as Ducks Secure Fifth Straight Win Over Avalanche in Shootout
Ducks Dispatch Avalanche in Shootout Victory
DENVER — The Anaheim Ducks edged out the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche 2-1 in a thrilling shootout on Wednesday night, marking their fifth consecutive win. Mikael Granlund and Cutter Gauthier both found the net during the shootout, while Lukas Dostal showcased remarkable skill, stopping 40 shots throughout the game.
Jeffrey Viel continued his scoring streak, netting a goal for the Ducks for the second straight game as they began a demanding six-game road trip.
On the other side, Colorado’s Artturi Lehkonen recorded the only goal for the Avalanche, while goaltender Scott Wedgewood made 16 saves in the contest.
Notably, Alex Killorn played in his 1,000th career game. The veteran forward spent 11 seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning, winning two Stanley Cup titles before joining the Ducks as a free agent this year.
In a significant roster update, Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin returned to action after missing the previous game against the Washington Capitals due to a precautionary hold stemming from a car accident en route to the rink.
The Avalanche faced challenges with several key players out due to injuries, including Gabriel Landeskog (upper body), defenseman Devon Toews (upper body), and forward Joel Kiviranta (lower body). Forward Logan O’Connor remains sidelined this season as he continues to recover from offseason hip surgery.
