Ducks build large lead, then hold off Vegas in opener

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, October 4, 2026

The Anaheim Ducks defeated the Vegas Golden Knights 4-3 in the NHL season opener, with Leo Carlsson contributing a goal and an assist and Lukas Dostal making 27 saves. This victory is notable as it avenges last season’s playoff loss to Vegas and sets a strong tone for Anaheim’s campaign.

The Anaheim Ducks secured a 4-3 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights in the opening game of the NHL season on Friday night in Las Vegas. Leo Carlsson played a key role for the Ducks, contributing a goal and an assist, while goaltender Lukas Dostal made 27 saves to help preserve the win.

The two teams, who faced each other last season in the second round of the playoffs with Vegas prevailing in six games before capturing the Western Conference title, delivered a competitive matchup. The Golden Knights had started their season earlier on Tuesday with a 5-2 home win against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Carlsson assisted on Beckett Sennecke’s goal with just eight seconds left in the first period before scoring himself at 7:03 of the second period. His goal capped a three-goal scoring run that gave Anaheim a 4-0 lead. Alex Killorn and Jeff Malott also found the back of the net for the Ducks. Notably, Noah Warren earned his first NHL point by assisting on Killorn’s goal.

Vegas mounted a comeback in the third period, with Shea Theodore, Tomas Hertl, and Braeden Bowman each scoring. Hertl’s goal came on a power play, and Bowman scored late in the period with 2:50 remaining. Carter Hart, in net for the Golden Knights, stopped 16 shots.

Despite the Golden Knights’ late rally, the Ducks maintained their advantage to secure a narrow win in the season opener.

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