Canadiens, Ducks Clash in Pivotal Playoff Chase Battle

Two teams still within striking distance of playoff spots face off Sunday afternoon as the Montreal Canadiens kick off a three-game California road trip against the Anaheim Ducks.

Montreal won the first meeting between these teams on Dec. 9, securing a 3-2 shootout victory at home, thanks to a goal and an assist from Patrik Laine.

Ducks Look to Bounce Back at Home

Anaheim returns home after splitting a two-game road trip, defeating Seattle 6-4 before falling 4-1 to Calgary on Thursday.

The Ducks led 1-0 against the Flames after a short-handed goal by Frank Vatrano, but Calgary responded with four straight goals. Anaheim, the NHL’s lowest-scoring team (130 goals this season), struggled to generate offense in the loss.

Before the Calgary defeat, the Ducks had won three straight games, tying their season-high winning streak and outscoring opponents 16-7 during that stretch.

Despite ranking near the bottom of the standings, Anaheim remains nine points out of a Western Conference wild-card spot and has three games left before the 4 Nations Face-Off break.

“Obviously, we want to end on a good note,” defenseman Jackson LaCombe said. “Getting a few points before the break is huge.”

LaCombe has been an offensive bright spot, ranking fifth on the team with 24 points (9 goals, 15 assists).

Ducks’ top scorers:
🏒 Troy Terry: 39 points (16 goals, 23 assists)
🏒 Frank Vatrano: 29 points (15 goals, 14 assists)
🏒 Ryan Strome: 29 points (7 goals, 22 assists)

Canadiens Look to Snap Four-Game Skid

Montreal enters the matchup on a four-game losing streak (0-3-1), including a 4-0 shutout loss to Minnesota on Thursday. The Canadiens mustered just 19 shots on goal, including only eight through the first two periods.

Despite their struggles, Montreal remains just four points behind the Eastern Conference wild-card race with five games in eight days before the break.

Suzuki continues to be the team’s offensive leader:
🔥 Nick Suzuki: 51 points (15 goals, 36 assists)
🔥 Cole Caufield: 47 points, team-high 25 goals

Center Jake Evans believes this road trip could be just what the Canadiens need.

“It’ll be good to regroup together and hopefully come back with some wins,” Evans said.

With both teams desperate for points, Sunday’s clash in Anaheim could shape the playoff race in both conferences. Will the Ducks hold strong at home, or can the Canadiens snap their losing streak?