Ducks host Blackhawks in matchup of Western upstarts

ANAHEIM –– The Ducks have spent seven years outside the postseason looking in and the Chicago Blackhawks haven’t qualified for a traditional Stanley Cup Playoffs in eight campaigns. But in 2025-26, they have both moved from the NHL’s basement to its penthouse suite. The two ascendant clubs will square off Sunday at Honda Center to conclude their season series. That’ll mean Leo Carlsson lining up opposite Connor Bedard, with the two 20-year-old centermen evolving from Calder Trophy contention two years ago to vying for Art Ross accolades. Bedard ranked fourth and Carlsson placed seventh on the NHL scoring leaderboard entering Saturday’s slate of games. Beyond those individual...