Terry's late power-play goal lifts Ducks over Predators

Troy Terry delivered a clutch power-play goal with 2:54 remaining, propelling the Anaheim Ducks to a 5-4 victory over the Nashville Predators in their regular-season finale. This win, coupled with Edmonton’s triumph over Vancouver, locked in the Ducks’ third seed in the Pacific Division for the playoffs. Anaheim will now face the Oilers in the first round starting Monday.

The Ducks entered the night with multiple scenarios possible for the final playoff matchups. Despite a rocky 2-6-2 finish over their last 10 games, they capitalized on this opportunity against an eliminated Nashville squad. The game showcased high drama, with both teams trading leads in a back-and-forth battle.

A back-and-forth battle unfolds

Cutter Gauthier wasted no time, striking just 96 seconds into the contest with a snap shot for his 41st goal of the season, giving Anaheim an early 1-0 lead. The Predators responded midway through the first when Steven Stamkos netted his 41st on an assist from rookie Cole O’Hara, who was making his NHL debut. This quick tie set the tone for a competitive evening.

Nashville then seized momentum late in the period. Filip Forsberg tipped in a goal on the power play at 15:54, putting the Preds ahead 2-1. But Jackson LaCombe answered with a shot from near the blue line that slipped through traffic, tying it at 2 with just 20.8 seconds left in the first. These rapid exchanges highlighted the defensive lapses on both sides.

The second period saw Anaheim regain the edge early. Alex Killorn ripped a slap shot at 4:33 for a 3-2 Ducks lead. Forsberg equalized again at 14:37 with a slot shot, and Stamkos followed with a power-play wrister just outside the left crease, flipping the score to 4-3 Nashville. The period ended with tension mounting as both teams pushed for control.

Entering the third, the Ducks refused to fade. Tristan Luneau tied it at 4-17 on a rebound of Mikael Granlund’s shot. The game hung in the balance until Terry’s late heroics on the man advantage sealed the deal. Goaltending and special teams proved decisive in this high-scoring affair.

Standout stars light up Bridgestone Arena

Mikael Granlund orchestrated Anaheim’s attack with three assists, including on Luneau’s and Terry’s goals. Gauthier, LaCombe, Killorn, and Luneau each contributed offensively, showcasing the Ducks’ depth. Terry’s winner was his highlight, underscoring his importance in big moments. Fantasy hockey managers had long eyed Terry as a matchup-based add, and he delivered.

For Nashville, Stamkos finished with two goals and an assist, reaching 42 on the season. Forsberg matched the 40-goal milestone with a pair, giving the Preds dual 40-goal scorers. Luke Evangelista and Ryan Ufko each dished two assists, but it wasn’t enough against Anaheim’s late surge.

• Ducks goal scorers: Gauthier (1:36, 1st), LaCombe (19:39, 1st), Killorn (4:33, 2nd), Luneau (4:17, 3rd), Terry (17:06, 3rd PP)
• Preds goal scorers: Stamkos (2x), Forsberg (2x)
• Key assists: Granlund (3), Stamkos (1), O’Hara (1 debut)

This offensive fireworks contrasted with Anaheim’s season series edge, winning 2-1 over Nashville.

Playoff positioning takes shape

The Ducks had clinched a berth earlier, their first since 2018, but this result solidified the No. 3 spot in the Pacific amid tight scenarios. As detailed in the latest Pacific division race updates, Anaheim seized control heading into the finale. Edmonton’s win over Vancouver confirmed the matchup. Ducks clinch berth in 2026 playoffs.

Five scenarios were in play pre-game, but Terry’s goal and the Edmonton result simplified it. Anaheim heads to Edmonton for Game 1 on Monday, a challenging but winnable series given their regular-season success.

The Predators, out of contention since Monday, ended on a high note offensively but missed the postseason. Their pair of 40-goal men provides hope for next year.

Momentum and challenges ahead

Despite the slump in their final 10 games, this victory injects confidence into the Ducks’ locker room. Facing a potent Edmonton squad will test their resolve early. Special teams, pivotal in this win, could be the difference maker.

Nashville’s stars like Stamkos and Forsberg demonstrated why they remain contenders. For Anaheim, young talents like Gauthier (41 goals) signal a bright future.

The Ducks’ return to the playoffs marks a resurgence. What it means for the championship chase: Anaheim is battle-tested and ready to surprise in the Pacific. Watch for Terry to build on this momentum as the postseason unfolds.