Vegas Golden Knights return to the second round after a narrow first‑round win over Utah. Anaheim Ducks, led by new coach Joel Quenneville, finished third in the Pacific and snapped a seven‑year playoff drought by edging the Edmonton Oilers in six games. The series starts Monday at T‑Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nev for fans and players.

Quenneville's first season saw a 12‑point jump and a streak of five straight home wins that carried Anaheim into the playoffs. Meanwhile, Vegas survived a 2‑1 deficit against Utah, with Brett Howden netting four goals, including a double‑OT winner, to secure a series edge for the team in this round and to set the tone.

Both clubs have key performers on the rise. Anaheim’s Jacob Trouba and Troy Terry each tallied a goal and four assists, while Leo Carlsson added two goals and two assists. Vegas countered with Jack Eichel’s four assists and Tomas Hertl’s two goals, but the Ducks’ defense proved stiffer than expected in the second round and against.

Vegas is favored at –210 to –180, while the Ducks sit at +150 to +170 in the betting markets. With BetMGM offering promo codes for playoff wagers, fans can lock in odds before the series heats up. The outcome will decide whether Anaheim returns to a conference final after nine years or extends its championship run.