Full Breakdown
Ducks Dominate Mammoth in Preseason Clash
9/23/2025, 10:58:24 AM
Ducks Secure First Preseason Victory
The Anaheim Ducks achieved a decisive 6-1 victory over the Utah Mammoth in their first home game of the 2025-26 preseason at Honda Center. This match marked the Ducks' first win after previously losing 3-1 to the Los Angeles Kings. The Ducks showcased a strong performance, with Drew Helleson contributing a goal and two assists, while Jackson LaCombe recorded three assists. Matthew Phillips scored two goals, and Ryan Strome, Beckett Sennecke, and Ross Johnston each added one goal to the tally. Petr Mrázek, the Ducks' goaltender, made 25 saves during the game.
Mammoth Struggle in Preseason
The Utah Mammoth faced their third consecutive loss, having been outscored 14-4 in their preseason games thus far. Their latest defeat against the Ducks followed earlier losses to the Colorado Avalanche, where they lost 5-1 and 3-2 in a doubleheader. Dylan Guenther managed to score the Mammoth's only goal in the game against Anaheim, demonstrating his commitment to becoming a more versatile scorer. Despite the losses, Mammoth head coach Andre Tourigny emphasized the importance of effort and progression during the preseason, stating, “You want culture, you want the effort to be there … the third part is the progression, the structure, and what we’re teaching.”
Key Performances and Strategies
The Ducks' offensive strategy was evident as they maintained possession and executed effective cycles, leading to multiple scoring opportunities. Helleson opened the scoring with a goal in the first period, followed by quick goals from Sennecke and Strome in the second period, which helped the Ducks build a commanding lead. The Ducks' coach, Joel Quenneville, praised the synergy between Helleson and LaCombe, likening their partnership to that of past NHL champions.
On the other hand, the Mammoth struggled defensively, with Karel Vejmelka allowing three goals on 17 shots before being replaced by Jaxson Stauber. Tourigny noted the need for his players to develop rhythm and improve their performance as the regular season approaches.
Official Statements & Responses
Joel Quenneville remarked on the Ducks' performance, stating, “I thought we competed tonight. The pace of the game was great.” He also highlighted the importance of maintaining a high tempo and puck possession, which were key focuses for the team. Meanwhile, Tourigny expressed optimism despite the losses, emphasizing the need for young players to demonstrate their skills and earn their spots on the roster.
What's Next for Both Teams
The Ducks will continue their preseason with a matchup against the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday, while the Mammoth will look to regroup before facing the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday. Both teams aim to refine their strategies and build momentum as they prepare for the regular season, which begins on October 9 for both franchises.
