UPDATE: The Anaheim Ducks’ impressive seven-game winning streak has come to a sudden halt, as they fell to the Colorado Avalanche 4-1 on October 31, 2023. In a highly anticipated matchup between the Western Conference’s top teams, the Avalanche showcased their dominance, marking a significant shift in momentum.
In a remarkable return, Gabriel Landeskog scored his first goal of the season, bringing the home crowd to its feet with chants of “Landy.” This goal, netted in the second period, marked Landeskog’s first regular-season score since March 5, 2022, following a series of knee surgeries that sidelined him for nearly two full seasons. His triumphant return not only lifted spirits but also solidified Colorado’s lead at 2-1.
The Avalanche’s star player, Nathan MacKinnon, contributed significantly with three assists, boosting his season total to 32 points, the highest in the NHL. Notably, Scott Wedgewood dominated in goal, saving 35 of 36 shots and achieving his NHL-leading 10th win of the season. This victory marks the seventh time this season that Wedgewood has allowed one or fewer goals in a game.
The Avalanche wasted no time establishing control, with Artturi Lehkonen scoring just 28 seconds into the first period. Alongside him, Martin Necas and Parker Kelly also found the back of the net, further extending Colorado’s lead.
Despite the loss, Ducks’ rookie sensation Leo Carlsson managed to score his sixth goal in four games, reaching a career milestone of 100 points—making him the youngest player in Ducks history to achieve this feat. Troy Terry assisted on Carlsson’s goal, marking his team-leading 15th assist of the season.
Ducks’ goaltender Lukas Dostal made an impressive 32 saves, but the team’s offensive struggles were evident as they matched a season-low with just one goal, a stark contrast to their league-leading average of 4.13 goals per game entering the contest.
As the Avalanche improve to 16-1-2 in their last 19 matchups against the Ducks, the loss comes as a blow to Anaheim, who will be eager to bounce back in their upcoming games. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as both teams navigate the remainder of the season, each aiming to secure their positions as top contenders in the league.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds and both teams continue to battle for supremacy in the Western Conference.
