Anaheim Ducks are learning to thrive in playoff pressure heading into Game 3 vs. Golden Knights

The Anaheim Ducks, who ended a seven-year playoff drought this season, are showing improved defensive resilience in the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs against the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite allowing the fourth-most goals in the NHL during the regular season and surrendering 21 goals to Edmonton in the first round, the Ducks successfully protected a 2-0 lead late in Game 2 to take a series advantage heading into Game 3. The young team is demonstrating growth under postseason pressure as they face the experienced Golden Knights.