Detroit Red Wings vs Anaheim Ducks February 23 2025
On a chilly Sunday evening in Detroit, hockey fans were treated to an electrifying contest between the Detroit Red Wings and the Anaheim Ducks. The game, which took place on February 23, 2025, at Little Caesars Arena, saw the Red Wings emerge victorious with a 5-4 overtime win, ending the Ducks’ four-game winning streak.
First Period: Red Wings’ Explosive Start
The Red Wings came out of the gates with guns blazing, scoring three goals in the first 5:06 of the game – the fastest any team has scored three goals this season. Here’s how the action unfolded in the opening period:
- 3:11 – Marco Kasper (10) opened the scoring for Detroit, assisted by Lucas Raymond (40).
- 4:29 – Alex DeBrincat (26) doubled the lead on a power play, with assists from Dylan Larkin (29) and Patrick Kane (21).
- 5:06 – Patrick Kane (13) extended the lead to 3-0 with another power-play goal, assisted by Moritz Seider (30) and Lucas Raymond (41).
- 8:24 – Ryan Strome (8) got the Ducks on the board, assisted by Troy Terry (25) and Frank Vatrano (15).
The period ended with Detroit leading 3-1, outshooting Anaheim 14-1.
Second Period: Trading Goals
The second period saw both teams exchange goals:
- 2:14 – Michael Rasmussen (9) scored Detroit’s third power-play goal of the night, assisted by J.T. Compher (16) and Erik Gustafsson (12).
- 7:04 – Cutter Gauthier (10) narrowed the gap for Anaheim, with assists from Jackson LaCombe (18) and Mason McTavish (15).
Detroit maintained their lead, ending the period up 4-2. The Red Wings outshot the Ducks 6-1 in this frame.
Third Period: Ducks’ Dramatic Comeback
With their backs against the wall, the Ducks mounted an impressive comeback in the final minutes of regulation:
- 17:44 – Olen Zellweger (5) brought Anaheim within one, assisted by Leo Carlsson (12) and Robby Fabbri (8).
- 19:07 – Cutter Gauthier (11) tied the game with his second goal of the night, scoring unassisted.
The Ducks outshot the Red Wings 8-0 in the third period, forcing overtime.
Overtime: Kane Seals the Deal
In the extra frame, it was Patrick Kane who played the hero for Detroit:
- 4:00 – Patrick Kane (14) scored the game-winning goal, assisted by Marco Kasper (12).
Shot Totals and Special Teams
The final shot count favored Detroit, with the Red Wings outshooting the Ducks 36-28. Detroit’s power play was particularly effective, converting on 3 of 4 opportunities, while Anaheim went 0 for 1 with the man advantage.
Standout Performances
Patrick Kane led the way for Detroit with two goals and an assist, including the overtime winner. Cutter Gauthier was the star for Anaheim, notching two crucial goals in the losing effort. Lucas Raymond contributed two assists for the Red Wings, continuing his strong season with his second consecutive 40-assist campaign.
Goaltender Duel
Alex Lyon secured the win for Detroit, making 24 saves on 28 shots. For Anaheim, Lukas Dostal stopped 31 of 36 shots in a valiant effort.
Implications and Looking Ahead
This victory improved Detroit’s record to 29-22-6, keeping them in the playoff hunt in the competitive Atlantic Division. The Ducks, despite the loss, showed resilience and fighting spirit, bringing their record to 25-24-7.
Photos: Tim Jarrold – In Play! magazine


