In a thrilling match, the Anaheim Ducks achieved their second consecutive victory by defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning. The win marked the Ducks’ third straight success, bolstered by an impressive performance from Mikael Granlund.
Ducks Win Against Tampa Bay Lightning
Head coach Joel Quenneville praised the team’s resilience, emphasizing their ability to respond after a challenging third period. Granlund played a crucial role, finishing the game with two goals and three assists, accumulating five points in total. This achievement tied him for the franchise record for a single game.
Historic Performance by Mikael Granlund
This remarkable outing positioned Granlund as the first Ducks player to achieve five points in a game since Ryan Getzlaf in 2015. In the history of the franchise, he became the seventh player to reach this feat.
- Five-Point Games in Ducks History:
- Ryan Getzlaf (2015)
- Mikael Granlund (2023)
- Other notable players in franchise history
In reflecting on the game, Granlund stated, “We just kept playing. I felt like we had a really good third period.” He noted that despite allowing five goals, securing the two points was the primary focus for the team.
Tampa Bay’s Struggles
The Lightning, currently enduring a four-game losing streak, faced a tough defeat against the Chicago Blackhawks prior to their match with Anaheim. The team, also seeking a much-needed win, presents a significant challenge for the Ducks.
Quenneville recognized the importance of maintaining momentum as they prepare to face Tampa. “We got a good test going into Tampa,” he said, highlighting the need to improve puck possession to remain competitive.
As the Ducks look to continue their winning streak, they must address defensive lapses while harnessing their offensive strengths. The upcoming matchup promises to be a pivotal moment for both teams.
