Auston Matthews' OT goal propels Maple Leafs past Ducks

John Tavares also found the back of the net for the Maple Leafs, securing victories in the first two games of their California road trip. Goaltender Martin Jones was exceptional, making 27 saves to earn his second consecutive win.

Lukas Dostal, the Anaheim goaltender, put on a remarkable performance, stopping a franchise-record and career-best 55 shots, including 21 in the third period.

The Maple Leafs' offensive prowess was evident as they registered 57 shots, tying their highest shot count on the road since NHL shot tracking began in 1959-60.

Frank Vatrano managed to score for the Ducks, but it wasn't enough as they have struggled, winning only one game out of their last six (1-4-1) during their eight-game homestand. Overall, the Ducks have only secured four victories in their last 22 outings (4-17-1) since November 15.

In overtime, Auston Matthews sealed the victory for the Maple Leafs with a one-timer assisted by Mitch Marner at 2:12, marking his first game-winning goal of the season and his 30th goal overall.

Despite their efforts, Dostal and the Ducks couldn't hold on to their lead in the final six minutes of the game.

Vatrano broke the scoreless tie in the second period, scoring his team-leading 18th goal with a shorthanded backhand shot from close range.

The Maple Leafs managed to equalize with a power-play goal from Tavares, capitalizing on a rebound with only 5:43 left in regulation. This goal, their 50th shot of the game, spoiled Dostal's outstanding performance.

Although the Ducks started strong, the Maple Leafs dominated the first period, outshooting their opponents 18-9.

However, they were unable to find the back of the net. Even when Dostal was beaten, his teammates, like Ilya Lyubushkin, came to his aid, sweeping the puck away from the goal line to deny Matthews an open-net goal.

Dostal showcased his exceptional skills throughout the game. During the second period, he left Toronto's Matthew Knies in awe multiple times. In the third period, Nylander's attempt on a partial breakaway was thwarted midway through the frame, and Dostal made a series of impressive saves on Matthews before the Maple Leafs finally scored.

At the end of the game, Matthews had fired 13 shots on goal, while Nylander had recorded eight shots. Additionally, both Marner and Tavares had sent seven shots towards the net.