Ducks cede self-inflicted series advantage to Vegas in dismal Game 3
The Golden Knights played their best game of the series with plenty of help from Anaheim, as Ducks give up goal on first shot, shorthanded goal and power play goal in first period.
Ross Johnston #44 of the Anaheim Ducks records a hit during an NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs match against the Vegas Golden Knights on May 8, 2026 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. ANAHEIM, Calif. – When looking for an even-keeled positive take coming out of the Anaheim Ducks ’ abysmal 6-2 loss in Game 3 to the Vegas Golden Knights, look no further than Lukáš Dostál following his stellar near-shutout performance in Anaheim’s 3-1 win in Game 2.
“It’s still one win in the series,” Dostál said. “I always say it doesn’t matter how you win or what the score is. ” At the end of Friday night at Honda Center, it’s still just a 2-1 series lead for Vegas.
There’s no extra points for scoring at all three strengths–even strength, shorthanded and on power play–in the first period or for Mitch Marner netting a hat trick to claim the playoff lead in goals and points. There’s also no extra demerits for Dostál giving up a goal on the first shot of the game for the third time in nine playoff games–13th time all season–before getting pulled after one period or the Ducks power play remaining power less–0-for-11 in the series after converting at 50% in the first round. However, if you’re looking for more fire and brimstone commiserate with just how bad Anaheim looked at points in Game 3, Ducks coach Joel Quenneville had that for you, when asked if his team came in too comfortable after controlling the play in the first two games.
“I think that there's a lesson to take out of today's game, and it's only gonna get harder every single game,” Quenneville said. “Not gonna get any easier. So let's get ready to go to war.
Continue to the original source for the full article.