The Anaheim Ducks are set to conclude their three-game road trip with a matchup against the Buffalo Sabres on February 25, 2025, at KeyBank Center. Both teams are eager for points as they battle for playoff positions, and the Ducks especially hope to capitalize on recent momentum.
Currently holding a record of 25 wins, 24 losses, and seven overtime losses, the Ducks sit at 57 points, just six points shy of the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference. They are coming off a thrilling overtime loss against the Detroit Red Wings, where after trailing by two goals, they rallied to tie the game 4-4, only to fall victim to Patrick Kane's breakaway goal. Anaheim has now managed to secure points in eight of their last nine matches, raising hopes for their playoff aspirations.
Leading the charge for Anaheim is Frank Vatrano, who has contributed 17 goals and 15 assists so far this season. His performance, along with Mason McTavish's seven goals and two assists over the last ten games, will be pivotal as the Ducks look to extend their current point streak to six games. Lacking the talent of suspended player Trevor Zegras, who received a three-game suspension for interference against the Red Wings, the Ducks will rely on Leo Carlsson to step up. Carlsson has been on fire, recording five assists and six points over the last five games, and his efforts could be decisive against the Sabres.
Fans and analysts alike have been watching the Sabres closely as well. While they remain at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a record of 23-27-5, Buffalo has managed to win five of their last six games, including impressive victories over rival teams like the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils. Their standout player, Tage Thompson, leads with 28 goals and 23 assists, showcasing his ability to find the back of the net amid the team's struggles.
Both teams last met on November 11, where the Sabres took home the win after coming back from being down by two goals to win 3-2 in overtime. This match is viewed as pivotal, not only for playoffs positioning but also as an opportunity for Anaheim to gain revenge.
With both Anaheim and Buffalo recent form fluctuated, this matchup is set to be compelling. Ducks' head coach has emphasized resilience and the importance of consistency, and as Robby Fabbri noted, "We kind of shot ourselves in the foot early on...but it goes to show the resilience we have here." With stakes high and both teams needing the points, hockey fans can expect an exciting showdown.
The Ducks will also need to rely on their goaltending situation as John Gibson is listed as day-to-day and may not start against the Sabres. Lukas Dostal is expected to take the net, providing fans with optimism due to his respectable goals against average of 2.92 and save percentage of .910.
For this game, the projected Ducks lineup includes Vatrano centering Ryan Strome and Troy Terry, with Mason McTavish partnering with Leo Carlsson and Alex Killorn. The fourth line features Johnston alongside Jansen Harkins and Brett Leason, bringing depth to the Ducks' offensive options.
On the Sabres' side, JJ Peterka will join Jiri Kulich and Tage Thompson on the first line, indicating Buffalo's strategy of utilizing their top offensive players against Anaheim's defense. With games getting tighter as the season progresses, both teams will look to gain ground and momentum moving forward.
Before this match, Anaheim will need to shake off the adversity of the recent suspension and injuries and establish their game strategy early on. The Ducks' power play has struggled this season, currently ranked last, and improving during this game will be another focus. Meanwhile, the Sabres will aim to continue their momentum and build on their recent successful outings.