NHL Preview: Anaheim Ducks (28-29-7) vs. Utah Hockey Club (28-25-11)

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Date and Time: Wednesday, March 12, 2025, 7:00 PM PST Venue: Delta Center, Salt Lake City, Utah Broadcast: SEG+, UtahHC+, Utah 16, KSL Sports Zone 97.5 FM, NHL App

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Team Records

Anaheim Ducks: 28-29-7

Utah Hockey Club: 28-25-11

Recent Performance

The Anaheim Ducks have had a mixed season, currently sitting just below .500. They have won two of their last three games, but those victories came after a five-game losing streak. The Utah Hockey Club, on the other hand, is on a hot streak, having won four consecutive games and nine of their last thirteen. They are looking to extend their winning streak and improve their playoff positioning.

Key Players to Watch

Anaheim Ducks:

Troy Terry: Leading the Ducks with 25 points (9 goals, 16 assists), Terry is a key offensive player. He has scored at least 20 goals in each of his last three seasons and found the back of the net against Utah in their previous meeting.

Ryan Strome: A consistent performer, Strome is part of the Ducks’ top line and contributes significantly to their offense.

Leo Carlsson: The young forward scored the overtime winner in the Ducks’ last meeting with Utah and will be looking to make an impact again.

Utah Hockey Club:

Dylan Guenther: Guenther has been on fire, scoring goals in four straight games and leading the team with 32 points (16 goals, 16 assists). His ability to score in bunches makes him a player to watch.

Logan Cooley: With seven assists in his last four games, Cooley is a key playmaker for Utah.

Karel Vejmelka: The goaltender has been stellar, contributing significantly to Utah’s recent success with solid performances in net.

Injury Report

Anaheim Ducks:

No significant injuries reported.

Utah Hockey Club:

No significant injuries reported.

Matchup History

The Ducks and Utah Hockey Club have faced each other twice this season. The Ducks won the first meeting 5-4 in overtime on October 16, with Leo Carlsson scoring the game-winner. Utah will be looking to avenge that loss and continue their winning streak.

Keys to the Game

Anaheim Ducks:

Defensive Stability: The Ducks need to tighten up their defense and limit Utah’s scoring opportunities. With the recent trade of veteran defenseman Cam Fowler, the Ducks will rely on players like Jackson LaCombe and Jacob Trouba to step up.

Goaltending Performance: Lukáš Dostál is expected to start in net for the Ducks. His performance will be crucial in keeping the game close and giving the Ducks a chance to win.

Top Line Production: The Ducks’ top line of Ryan Strome, Troy Terry, and Frank Vatrano needs to continue their recent scoring surge to provide the offensive spark.

Utah Hockey Club:

Offensive Pressure: Utah needs to maintain their offensive pressure and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Players like Dylan Guenther and Logan Cooley will be key in generating offense.

Goaltending Consistency: Karel Vejmelka’s performance in net will be vital. He needs to continue his strong play to give Utah a chance to win.

Special Teams: Utah needs to capitalize on power-play opportunities and improve their penalty kill to limit the Ducks’ chances.

Anaheim Ducks                                 5.5

Utah Hockey Club                            – 225

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, March 11, 2025