In a commanding performance on March 9, 2025, the Anaheim Ducks secured a 4-1 victory over the New York Islanders at the Honda Center. The standout of the evening was forward Sam Colangelo, who netted two goals, extending his impressive scoring streak to four consecutive games.
First Period: Colangelo Sets the Tone
The Ducks wasted no time asserting their dominance. At 7:15 into the first period, Colangelo opened the scoring with a deft move, lifting the puck over Islanders’ goaltender Marcus Hogberg. This goal not only energized the home crowd but also marked Colangelo’s fourth goal in as many games, underscoring his recent offensive surge.
Second Period: Ducks Extend the Lead
The momentum remained with Anaheim in the second period. Defenseman Drew Helleson doubled the lead at 3:45, firing a shot from the point that found its way through traffic and past Hogberg. The Ducks’ aggressive forechecking and disciplined play limited the Islanders’ offensive opportunities, keeping them off the scoreboard through two periods.
Third Period: Sealing the Victory
The final period saw the Ducks capitalize on special teams. At 10:22, Mason McTavish scored a power-play goal, showcasing precise puck movement and a lethal finish to make it 3-0. The Islanders managed to break Lukas Dostal’s shutout bid with a goal from Tony DeAngelo at 15:09, but it was too little, too late. Colangelo sealed the game with an empty-net goal at 18:45, bringing the final score to 4-1.
Goaltending Excellence
Lukas Dostal was instrumental in the Ducks’ victory, making 31 saves and displaying poise under pressure. His timely stops, especially during the Islanders’ power plays, maintained Anaheim’s lead and frustrated New York’s offensive efforts.
Colangelo’s Rising Star
Since his recall from the AHL’s San Diego Gulls on February 27, Colangelo has been on a tear, scoring five goals in four games. His offensive contributions have provided a significant boost to the Ducks, adding depth and scoring prowess to the lineup.
Implications for the Islanders
The loss was a setback for the Islanders, who are in a tight race for an Eastern Conference wild-card spot. Despite returning goaltender Marcus Hogberg making 24 saves in his first game back from injury, the team couldn’t muster the offensive support needed. They remain four points behind in the wild-card standings, missing an opportunity to gain ground.
Looking Ahead
The Ducks will aim to build on this victory as they continue their push toward the playoffs. With emerging talents like Colangelo stepping up, Anaheim’s future looks promising. The Islanders, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their inconsistencies to keep their postseason hopes alive.
This game highlighted the Ducks’ potential when firing on all cylinders and the challenges the Islanders face in their quest for playoff contention.
