The Anaheim Ducks have decided to part ways with head coach Greg Cronin following two seasons, as confirmed by general manager Pat Verbeek. Despite some improvements seen among the young roster, Verbeek indicated that a change in direction was needed after assessing the team's performance. The Ducks finished with a record of 35-37-10, missing the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season, although they did show a 21-point improvement over the previous year.

Under Cronin, the Ducks managed a total of 62 wins in 164 games. The next head coach will inherit a promising young core, featuring standout performances from players like Mason McTavish, who led the team with 22 goals and 52 points, and Leo Carlsson, the second overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. The Ducks' future looks bright as they continue to develop their young talents.

Cutter Gauthier's clutch goal in overtime propelled the Anaheim Ducks to a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Calgary Flames. After trailing 3-1, the Ducks surged back with late goals from Frank Vatrano and Gauthier, who each scored to tie the game. Gauthier's decisive wrist shot in OT capped a remarkable comeback.

Mikael Backlund started the scoring for the Flames, and Yegor Sharangovich along with Matt Coronato extended their lead to two before the Ducks rallied. Ville Husso made 36 saves, showcasing his skills in net as he kept the Ducks in contention.

The NHL season is nearing its conclusion, with just 11 days remaining. Head-to-head fantasy league participants face challenging decisions this week, especially for players on the New Jersey Devils, New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers, and Toronto Maple Leafs, who are all scheduled for only two games. As the playoffs approach, strategic planning is vital.

Several teams have favorable schedules, with the Boston Bruins, Calgary Flames, Colorado Avalanche, and others playing up to four games this week. Players like Jeremy Swayman start for the Bruins, although his season has been rocky. Meanwhile, young talents like Leo Carlsson and Jackson LaCombe are gaining attention for their recent performances, potentially becoming valuable picks for next season's drafts.

Alex Ovechkin scored his 888th career goal, leading the Washington Capitals to a 3-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, further bolstering the Capitals' impressive season record. Lindgren was solid in goal, while his counterpart Ersson struggled to contain Ovechkin and Co. The Capitals took a 2-0 lead in the second period and extended it to 3-0 with Mangiapane's goal. The Flyers made a late push with two goals in the third but couldn't complete the comeback.

Ovechkin has been particularly dominant at 39, ranking fourth in the NHL in goals this season. His scoring prowess remains formidable, especially against the Flyers, where he consistently finds the back of the net. Protas, with three assists over three games, showed promise as a budding playmaker. The Capitals' solid performance reinforced their standing in the playoff race, pushing their point total to 100.

The NHL playoff race is heating up as the season enters its final month. In the Eastern Conference, seven teams are within six points of the last playoff spot, while three teams in the West are just two points away from the second wild card. Key matchups and player performances will be pivotal in the approaching weeks.

This week, teams like the Boston Bruins and Buffalo Sabres face challenging schedules, while players like Leo Carlsson and Troy Terry continue to shine. Carlsson has recorded five goals and 15 points in the last 15 games, showcasing his potential as a second overall draft pick. Meanwhile, Leon Draisaitl is on a scoring streak, hitting the 100-point milestone.

With injuries affecting teams like the Calgary Flames and Boston Bruins, the depth of each roster will be tested. As the last games approach, teams must strategize effectively to secure a playoff spot.