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Ducks Fall to Maple Leafs in Overtime Thriller
Tavares scores last-second winner as Anaheim's comeback falls short
Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:33am
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The Anaheim Ducks fought back from a late deficit but ultimately fell to the Toronto Maple Leafs 3-2 in overtime on a last-second goal by Leafs captain John Tavares. The loss was a tough one for the Ducks, who had rallied to tie the game in the final minutes of regulation.
Why it matters
This was an important early-season matchup between two of the NHL's top teams, with the Ducks looking to make a statement against one of the Eastern Conference powerhouses. The dramatic overtime finish will only add to the growing rivalry between these two clubs.
The details
Trailing 2-1 late in the third period, the Ducks pulled their goalie for the extra attacker and were able to tie the game with just over a minute remaining. But in the final seconds of overtime, Leafs captain John Tavares scored the game-winner to give Toronto the victory. Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas was involved in a number of physical confrontations throughout the game.
- The game was played on March 30, 2026.
- Tavares scored the overtime winner with just 5 seconds remaining in the extra period.
The players
John Tavares
Captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs and veteran center who scored the overtime game-winning goal.
Radko Gudas
Ducks defenseman known for his physical, hard-hitting style of play.
What they’re saying
“We fought hard to get back in that game, but just couldn't close it out. Tough way to lose, but we'll learn from this and come back stronger.”
— Ryan Getzlaf, Ducks Captain
What’s next
The Ducks will look to bounce back quickly as they host the Vegas Golden Knights on April 2nd.
The takeaway
This was a heartbreaking loss for the Ducks, who showed resilience to battle back but ultimately fell short against one of the NHL's elite teams. The physical play and dramatic finish will only add fuel to the growing rivalry between these two franchises.
