The Ducks earned it — the game and the expected-goals battle both.
The Ducks defeated the Panthers 7–3, controlling 60% of shot attempts (32–21) and 58% of expected goals while scoring 2.57 goals above their underlying play—a blend of dominance and clinical finishing.
Anaheim's underlying metrics were comprehensive. They generated 4.43–3.24 expected goals, with high-danger chances favoring the visitors 11–4. Yet the 4–goal margin exceeded what their production warranted: S. Bobrovsky conceded 2.57 goals above expected, a dramatic shortfall that expanded the scoreline.
L. Dostal faced fewer chances and converted efficiently at 0.857 save percentage. The disparity between starters—Bobrovsky -2.57, Dostal stable—explained a significant portion of the final spread.
Anaheim's execution elsewhere was lethal. They scored four times on 30 rush attempts, a rate that signifies elite transition positioning. Florida managed two on 27. Crashing the net yielded dividends too: Anaheim created six rebound chances and converted three, reflecting relentless forechecking. The power play was decisive—two goals on 11 shots with 0.99 expected goals, showing premium positioning even in limited volume.
Jansen Harkins's wrist shot from the slot in the third period (14:47) marked the moment Anaheim's depth overwhelmed their opponent entirely.