Golden Knights vs. Ducks schedule: Dates, times, TV channels, scores for NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs series

The second round of the NHL playoffs is officially underway, and the Western Conference is set for a fascinating clash of styles. While the Pacific Division was widely considered the weakest in the NHL all season long, someone has to emerge to represent the group in the Western Conference Finals. That honor will be decided between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Anaheim Ducks—two franchises who have never faced each other in the postseason. This series is not just a battle for conference supremacy; it is a collision of a modern expansion dynasty against a resurgent original California hockey market. Below, we break down the full schedule, key storylines, and what to expect when the puck drops.

The Golden Knights vs. Ducks schedule: Dates, times, TV channels, scores for NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

How the Golden Knights and Ducks reached Round 2

The path to this second-round matchup was anything but easy for either club. The Vegas Golden Knights were tested early and often by the Utah Mammoth in the first round. Despite Utah’s relentless push, Vegas prevailed in six games. That series featured multiple overtime thrillers, proving that head coach John Tortorella still knows how to grind out wins in high-pressure moments. Tortorella’s system—built on shot blocking, aggressive forechecking, and disciplined structure—was the difference maker when the Mammoth threatened to steal momentum.

On the other side, the Anaheim Ducks pulled off a historic upset. They became the first Western Conference team to defeat the Edmonton Oilers in the playoffs since 2023. This was no small feat. The Oilers, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, had dominated the Pacific for two consecutive postseasons. But Anaheim’s young core and veteran savvy proved too much. The Ducks hadn’t made the playoffs since 2018, and they hadn’t won a playoff series since 2017. That drought is now over, and the team is playing with the confidence of a squad that has already exceeded all preseason expectations.

Golden Knights vs. Ducks: Full schedule, dates, times, TV channels

Below is the complete schedule for the Western Conference Second Round series between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Anaheim Ducks. All times are listed in Eastern Time, and TV channels are subject to change based on regional broadcasts. Check your local listings for the most up-to-date information on TV channels.

• Game 1: Anaheim Ducks at Vegas Golden Knights — Date TBD, Time TBD, TV: TBD
• Game 2: Anaheim Ducks at Vegas Golden Knights — Date TBD, Time TBD, TV: TBD
• Game 3: Vegas Golden Knights at Anaheim Ducks — Date TBD, Time TBD, TV: TBD
• Game 4: Vegas Golden Knights at Anaheim Ducks — Date TBD, Time TBD, TV: TBD
• Game 5 (if necessary): Anaheim Ducks at Vegas Golden Knights — Date TBD, Time TBD, TV: TBD
• Game 6 (if necessary): Vegas Golden Knights at Anaheim Ducks — Date TBD, Time TBD, TV: TBD
• Game 7 (if necessary): Anaheim Ducks at Vegas Golden Knights — Date TBD, Time TBD, TV: TBD

Fans should note that the Golden Knights vs. Ducks schedule will be released officially by the NHL after the conclusion of all first-round series. Keep checking The Sporting News for confirmed dates, times, and TV channel updates as they become available. Given the travel distance between Las Vegas and Anaheim, expect a standard 2-2-1-1-1 format for this series.

Expert analysis: Key matchups and X-factors

This series is a tactical chess match. The Vegas Golden Knights boast one of the deepest blue lines in the league, anchored by Alex Pietrangelo and Shea Theodore. Their ability to transition from defense to offense in an instant will test Anaheim’s neutral zone structure. However, the Ducks counter with a physical, heavy forecheck that wore down Edmonton’s skill players. If Anaheim can replicate that pressure against Vegas’s mobile defensemen, they can force turnovers and generate high-danger chances.

The goaltending battle is equally intriguing. Vegas’s netminder, Adin Hill, has been steady but not spectacular. He will need to elevate his game against a Ducks team that scores by committee. Anaheim’s goalie, John Gibson, is a former Vezina Trophy candidate who has rediscovered his elite form. If Gibson steals a game or two, this series could swing dramatically.

Another critical factor is special teams. The Golden Knights’ power play was inconsistent in the first round, while the Ducks’ penalty kill was excellent. Tortorella will need to simplify his man-advantage units to avoid giving Anaheim momentum. Conversely, the Ducks must stay disciplined and avoid taking unnecessary penalties against a Vegas team that can make opponents pay with quick puck movement.

Finally, intangibles matter. The Golden Knights have been to the Stanley Cup Final before and know what it takes to win in May. The Ducks are playing with house money after their first-round upset. That combination of hunger and fearlessness can be dangerous. Expect Anaheim to come out flying in Game 1, while Vegas will rely on its veteran composure to settle the game down.

Predictions: Who wins the Golden Knights vs. Ducks series?

Predicting this series is a challenge because both teams have clear strengths and vulnerabilities. The Golden Knights have the edge in playoff experience and defensive depth. John Tortorella’s system is tailor-made for the postseason grind, and Vegas’s ability to win close games was proven in the first round. However, the Ducks have momentum, a hot goaltender, and a physical identity that can frustrate even the most disciplined opponents.

I expect this series to go the distance. The Ducks will steal at least one game in Las Vegas, forcing Tortorella to make adjustments. But ultimately, the Golden Knights’ star power and depth at center will be the difference. Jack Eichel and Mark Stone will find ways to generate offense against Anaheim’s collapsing defense. If Vegas can win the special teams battle, they will advance.

Prediction: Golden Knights in 7 games.

That said, do not be surprised if Anaheim pulls off another upset. They have the goaltending and the belief to do it. This is a series that will define the future of both franchises. For the Ducks, it is a chance to prove that their return to relevance is permanent. For the Golden Knights, it is an opportunity to validate their status as a perennial contender. Either way, hockey fans are in for a treat.

How to watch Golden Knights vs. Ducks live

For fans looking to catch every moment of the action, the series will be broadcast on national television. Check TV channels such as ESPN, TNT, or NHL Network for the latest listings. Streaming options include ESPN+ and Hulu, depending on your region. If you are in the local markets, regional sports networks like Bally Sports SoCal (Ducks) and AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain (Golden Knights) will carry the games.

Remember, the Golden Knights vs. Ducks schedule: Dates, times, TV channels, scores for NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here for real-time updates, scores, and expert analysis throughout the series.

Conclusion: A new chapter in Pacific Division history

The Vegas Golden Knights and Anaheim Ducks have never met in the playoffs before. That changes now, and the stakes could not be higher. One team will advance to the Western Conference Finals with a chance to play for the Stanley Cup. The other will go home with a season of what-ifs. For the Ducks, simply being here is a victory after years of rebuilding. For the Golden Knights, anything less than a championship is a disappointment. That pressure dynamic will define this series.

Whether you are a fan of the Golden Knights’ relentless attack or the Ducks’ gritty resilience, this is must-watch hockey. Mark your calendars, set your DVRs, and prepare for a battle that will be remembered for years. The road to the Stanley Cup runs through the Pacific, and these two teams are ready to leave everything on the ice.

Source: Based on news from Yahoo Sports.