Gauthier’s Late Goal Secures Ducks’ Win, Earns Quenneville 1,000th Victory

Casey Halston

Published: February 28, 2026 9:53 PM ET

The recent matchup between the Edmonton Oilers and the Anaheim Ducks showcased critical moments that led to an exciting conclusion. The Ducks claimed a dramatic victory, which also marked a significant milestone for Coach Joel Quenneville.

Gauthier’s Late Goal Secures Ducks’ Win

Late in the game, the Ducks triumphed over the Oilers with a final score of 6-5. The decisive moment came when forward Gauthier scored a late goal, sealing the win for the Ducks. This victory also celebrated Coach Quenneville’s 1,000th career win. It was a remarkable achievement reflective of his coaching prowess.

Game Highlights and Statistics

Edmonton Goals:
- Savoie opened the scoring for Edmonton early in the game with a power-play goal.
- McDavid, fresh from Olympic duty, contributed significantly once again.
Anaheim Goals:
- Sennecke scored to tie the game at 5-5, continuing a strong performance.
- Gauthier’s late goal clinched the victory for Anaheim.

Key Player Performances

Oilers:
- Savoie demonstrated excellent form with impactful play on both offense and defense.
- Coach Kris Knoblauch noted the importance of improved goaltending in their strategy.
Ducks:
- Gauthier emerged as a game-changer with his crucial late goal.
- Sennecke leads NHL rookies with an impressive 19 goals.

Strategic Insights

This game marked a notable point in the season for Anaheim. It was the latest in a season that the Ducks have remained in a playoff spot since the 2017-18 season. With strong contributions from players like Jackson LaCombe, who returned from Olympic success, the Ducks displayed depth and resilience.

Notable Milestones

Coach Joel Quenneville reached his 1,000th career victory.
Ross Johnston played in his 300th NHL game.

This thrilling matchup between the Ducks and Oilers not only captivated fans but also highlighted key players’ contributions and milestones. As the season progresses, both teams will look towards future matchups, aiming to build on their successes.