Frank Vatrano’s hat-trick performance propelled the Anaheim Ducks to a triumphant 4-1 victory over the playoff-bound Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday night, concluding their season on a high note.
The defeat ended Vegas’ three-game winning streak and relegated them from third place in the Pacific Division to the second Western Conference wild-card spot, as the Los Angeles Kings secured a point by reaching overtime against Chicago.
As a result, the defending Stanley Cup champions will now face the top-seeded Dallas Stars in the first round, while the Kings will take on Edmonton.
Reflecting on the upcoming playoff challenge, Jack Eichel, who scored the lone goal for the Knights, emphasized the competitiveness of the remaining teams and the arduous journey ahead, yet expressed optimism about the opportunity that lies ahead for their team.
Vatrano’s stellar performance notched his 37th goal of the season, marking a career-high and securing his third hat trick of the season and sixth of his career.
Jackson LaCombe contributed a goal and an assist for the Ducks, with Ryan Strome providing two assists and Lukas Dostal making 29 saves. Cutter Gauthier, in his NHL debut, earned an assist, transitioning from playing in the NCAA championship game for Boston College just five days earlier.
Ducks forward Jakob Silfverberg bid farewell to the NHL after 12 seasons, receiving accolades from teammates and exchanging handshakes with Golden Knights players. Silfverberg expressed gratitude for his time in Anaheim and his bond with the team and the city.
Eichel’s goal marked his 31st of the season, his highest since the 2019-20 season with Buffalo. Adin Hill made 19 saves for Vegas.
William Karlsson’s second-period assist pushed his season points tally to 60, while Jonathan Marchessault narrowly missed breaking the club’s single-season goals record despite a valiant effort with 13 shots against the Ducks.
