The Anaheim Ducks secured a critical victory on Sunday night, edging out the Vegas Golden Knights 4-3 to even their best-of-seven series. The win at Honda Center ensures that this 2025-26 season NHL Playoffs matchup remains wide open as the teams prepare for a pivotal Game 5. With the series now tied 2-2, Anaheim has successfully halted the momentum Vegas built earlier in the week.
Entering the contest, the Golden Knights held a 2-1 advantage and looked to push the Ducks to the brink of elimination. However, Anaheim's performance provided a necessary answer to the lopsided 6-2 defeat they suffered in Game 3. The Ducks' ability to maintain a lead in the closing minutes showcased a level of composure required to survive the postseason.
The game was played under the shadow of significant injuries on both sides. Vegas continued to navigate the 2025-26 season NHL Playoffs without captain Mark Stone, a loss that impacts their offensive depth and leadership. Meanwhile, Anaheim's defensive core was tested as Radko Gudas remained sidelined with a lower-body injury and Drew Helleson was also unavailable.
The decisive moment
The game turned on Anaheim's ability to withstand a late surge from the Golden Knights. After Vegas closed the gap to within one goal, the Ducks’ defensive structure became the primary story. Their success in clearing the zone and winning puck battles prevented Vegas from finding the equalizer in the dying seconds.
By limiting second-chance opportunities in the slot, the Ducks ensured that their early scoring efforts would be enough to secure the win. The 4-3 final score reflects a contest that was fought for every inch of ice. This resilient effort was exactly what the home crowd at Honda Center hoped to see after a difficult Game 3.
By the numbers
- Final Score: Anaheim Ducks 4, Vegas Golden Knights 3
- Series Record: Tied 2-2 through four games
- Scoring Margin: 1 point (the narrowest margin of the series)
- Series History: Vegas has outscored Anaheim 13-10 through four matchups
The 4-3 result marks a return to the closely contested play seen in the opening games of the series. When the Ducks are able to limit the Golden Knights' scoring opportunities, they have proven they can compete with the top-seeded Vegas squad this postseason.
What it means
This victory changes the dynamic of the series as it shifts back to T-Mobile Arena. Instead of facing a must-win scenario on the road, the Ducks have earned a home split and regained their confidence. For Vegas, the loss is a missed opportunity to take a commanding 3-1 lead in the 2025-26 season NHL Playoffs.
The depth of both rosters will now be the focus as the series reaches its boiling point. With the series becoming a best-of-three, the impact of missing stars like Mark Stone and Radko Gudas becomes more pronounced. Coaches on both benches must find ways to maximize their remaining lineups as fatigue starts to set in during this grueling stretch.
What to watch next
Game 5 is scheduled for Las Vegas, where the Golden Knights will look to capitalize on their boisterous home crowd. The Ducks will aim to replicate their road success from Game 2 to put Vegas on the ropes for the first time in the series. All eyes will be on the injury report to see if any sidelined veterans can make a return for these crucial final games.