Carlsson Leads Ducks Past Golden Knights 4-3

Early Dominance Sets Tone

Leo Carlsson was instrumental in the Anaheim Ducks’ opening-night success, contributing both a goal and an assist to secure a 4-3 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights on Friday. The win moves the Ducks to 1-0-0 with two points, while the host Golden Knights fall to 1-1-0.

Anaheim established control early, taking a 1-0 lead in the first period when Beckett Sennecke capitalized on a wrist shot. The goal was assisted by Leo Carlsson and Tristan Luneau, giving the visitors an early advantage that they would maintain for the majority of the contest.

Second Period Surge

The Ducks extended their lead significantly during the second period, outscoring Vegas 3-0 in the frame to put the game out of reach. Alex Killorn opened the scoring with a tip-in goal, supported by assists from Noah Warren and Mikael Granlund, making it 2-0.

Jeff Malott doubled the margin shortly after, deflecting a shot past the goaltender with help from Tim Washe and Jackson LaCombe for a 3-0 lead. The period concluded with Carlsson adding his own goal on a snap shot, assisted by Anthony-John (AJ) Greer and Cutter Gauthier, pushing the score to 4-0.

Vegas Closes Gap Late

Vegas attempted a comeback in the third period, managing to score three unanswered goals. Shea Theodore initiated the rally with a snap shot goal, assisted by Brett Howden and Jack Eichel, bringing the score to 4-1.

Tomas Hertl followed with a wrist shot goal, assisted by Mitch Marner and Jack Eichel, narrowing the deficit to 4-2. Braeden Bowman completed the scoring for the Golden Knights with a wrist shot goal, assisted by Victor Olofsson and Brayden McNabb, making it 4-3.

Final Standings

Despite the late surge, Vegas could not complete the comeback. Jack Eichel recorded two assists for the Golden Knights, while Tomas Hertl scored one goal. For Anaheim, Leo Carlsson finished with two points total. The game was played at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, before an attendance of 17,619.

Sources

ESPN