Sharks Defeat Ducks in Thrilling 4-3 Contest

The San Jose Sharks defeated the Anaheim Ducks 4-3 on Wednesday night, fueled by a remarkable performance from rookie Macklin Celebrini. Celebrini scored a crucial tying goal with under two minutes remaining and then assisted on Alexander Wennberg’s winning goal with just 31 seconds left on the clock.

Celebrini's Record-Breaking Night

Celebrini finished the game with two goals and two assists, totaling four points. This performance elevates his season totals to 40 goals and 105 points, surpassing Erik Karlsson for the second-highest single-season point total in Sharks franchise history. Only Joe Thornton’s 114-point season in 2006-07 remains ahead of him.

Rookie Milestone

The 19-year-old Celebrini has now recorded 17 games this season with three or more points. This places him second among teenagers in NHL history, trailing only Wayne Gretzky, who had 19 such games in the 1979-80 season.

Game Recap and Key Performances

Will Smith contributed with a goal and two assists for the Sharks, while Yaroslav Askirov stopped 28 shots in goal. For the Ducks, Troy Terry gave his team a 3-2 lead early in the third period before Celebrini’s late heroics.

Ducks Struggle, Despite Efforts

Ryan Poehling and Alex Killorn also scored for Anaheim, but the Ducks suffered their third consecutive loss despite remaining atop the Pacific Division. Drew Helleson recorded two assists, and Lukas Dostal made 16 saves, adding his first assist of the season on Poehling’s goal.

Ducks Face Injury and Debut

Anaheim played without leading goal scorer Cutter Gauthier, who sustained an upper-body injury during Monday’s game against Toronto. Nathan Gaucher made his NHL debut for the Ducks, having been selected 22nd overall in the 2022 draft.

Series Lead and Upcoming Games

The Sharks now lead the regular-season series against the Ducks 2-1.

Looking Ahead

  • Ducks: Return home to face the St. Louis Blues on Friday night.
  • Sharks: Host the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday night, continuing their six-game homestand.