The Anaheim Ducks and Dallas Stars are set to face off in an intriguing NHL matchup on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. The game is scheduled to start at 8:00 PM CST and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
Team Overview
Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks have had a challenging season, currently holding a record of 29-31-7. They are sixth in the Pacific Division standings and are fighting to stay relevant in the playoff race. Anaheim’s offense has been led by Troy Terry, who has contributed 18 goals and 31 assists, and Frank Vatrano, who has added 20 goals and 21 assists. However, the team has struggled with consistency, particularly on special teams, with a power play success rate of just 12.8% and a penalty kill rate of 72.8%.
Defensively, the Ducks have allowed an average of 3.12 goals per game, which has been a significant hurdle. Goaltender Lukas Dostal has been solid, with a record of 20-18-5, a 2.94 goals-against average (GAA), and a .908 save percentage. The Ducks will need a strong defensive effort and improved special teams play to compete against the Stars.
Dallas Stars
The Stars, on the other hand, are enjoying a strong season with a record of 42-21-3, placing them second in the Central Division. Dallas boasts a well-rounded team with a potent offense and a solid defense. Matt Duchene has been a standout performer, leading the team with 26 goals and 41 assists, while Jason Robertson has contributed 29 goals and 38 assists.
Defensively, the Stars have been one of the better teams in the league, allowing just 2.62 goals per game. Their penalty kill has been excellent, operating at 84.5%, and their power play has been effective at 22.6%. Goaltender Jake Oettinger has been a key factor in their success, with a record of 30-15-3, a 2.55 GAA, and a .907 save percentage.
Key Matchup
The battle between Anaheim’s struggling special teams and Dallas’s strong power play and penalty kill will be a critical factor in this game. The Ducks will need to stay disciplined and avoid giving the Stars too many opportunities on the man advantage. Additionally, Anaheim’s defense will have to find a way to contain Dallas’s top scorers, particularly Duchene and Robertson.
Recent Form
The Ducks have lost five of their last seven games, including a tough 7-2 defeat to the St. Louis Blues in their most recent outing. They have struggled to generate consistent offense, averaging just 2.63 goals per game this season. The Stars, meanwhile, have lost three of their last four games but remain a formidable team, particularly at home, where they have won seven consecutive night games.
