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ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) - The Stanley Cup playoffs serve as a transformative experience for teams, pushing players to elevate their performance under intense pressure from fans and opponents alike.

The Anaheim Ducks, a young team making their playoff debut, are adapting and thriving amid the challenges of postseason hockey. Ducks' Defensive Challenges Despite ending a seven-year playoff drought, the Ducks struggled defensively during the regular season, often exhibiting poor backchecking and inconsistent goaltending. They allowed the fourth-most goals in the NHL, the highest among playoff teams, and faced a daunting task against the Edmonton Oilers, surrendering 21 goals in the first round. Resilience in Game 2 In a crucial moment during Game 2 against the Vegas Golden Knights, the Ducks demonstrated their commitment to winning. With less than seven minutes remaining and a 2-0 lead, the team's defense intensified. During a chaotic scramble in front of the net, several Ducks players threw themselves to the ice to block shots, while goalie Lukas Dostal displayed remarkable agility, humorously comparing his efforts to that of a soccer goalie. The team's determination paid off, as they secured a 3-1 victory, leveling the series and reinforcing the foundation of a team eager to contend for the Stanley Cup in the future.

Team Chemistry and Experience Forward Troy Terry expressed the significance of the shared playoff experience for the Ducks, stating, "A lot of us are going through it together for the first time... the whole experience is just bringing us closer together." He emphasized the team's hunger for success and the realization that they can only fully understand the demands of the playoffs through firsthand experience. Upcoming Challenges The Ducks will face the Golden Knights again in Game 3, as the playoffs continue with heightened anticipation. Anaheim has managed to limit Vegas to just four goals over the first two games, which includes an empty-netter and a late power-play goal. Coach Joel Quenneville acknowledged the team's growth, stating, "I know this team had some growing pains... but all year long we said, 'I just can't wait to get to the playoffs so we can see just how good these guys can be.'" He noted that the team is currently playing its best hockey of the season.

Game Schedule The playoffs will resume Friday with the Montreal Canadiens visiting the Buffalo Sabres before the Ducks host the Golden Knights for Game 3. Montreal Canadiens vs. Buffalo Sabres Preview As the Canadiens prepare to face the Sabres, they aim to regain their footing after a loss in Game 1. Coach Martin St. Louis remarked on the need for improvement, saying, "I can't say that I learned anything yesterday, but I will tell you that I know we can play with them." The Canadiens hope to start strong, having struggled in the previous game, where they fell behind early. Forward Cole Caufield, who led the team in goals during the regular season, emphasized his need to improve after a recent scoring drought. Coaches' Insights Sabres coach Lindy Ruff pointed out that some players' decisions with the puck were below expectations, attributing it to a four-day break between games. He acknowledged that the time off may have affected the team's rhythm.