Alex Killorn Reaches 1,000 NHL games as Anaheim Ducks extend winning streak to five games

Alex Killorn achieved a career milestone on Wednesday night at Ball Arena. The Anaheim Ducks forward played his 1,000th NHL game as his team defeated the Colorado Avalanche 2-1 in a shootout.The 35-year-old became the latest player to join the exclusive 1,000-game club while helping Anaheim extend its winning streak to five games. Killorn's teammates made sure his special night ended with two points in the standings.Killorn spent the morning joking about how he almost "bubble wrapped" himself during practice to ensure he'd make it to his milestone game. However, he credited hard work and consistency throughout his 13 NHL seasons for reaching this achievement."I'm really fortunate, honestly, to be in this situation," Killorn said before the game. "It's pretty special, and I'm fortunate, for sure. I haven't really taken it all in just yet. I think once I get through this game tonight, I think it'll become more real."The veteran forward has been a model of reliability throughout his career. He spent his first 11 seasons with Tampa Bay before signing a four-year contract with Anaheim in July 2023.Ducks captain Radko Gudas praised his teammate for reaching the milestone. "I was there when he made his first professional debut; he was there when I made my NHL debut," Gudas said. "He's a true pro. He's helping all the young guys here understand what it all takes. He won cups for a reason."While Killorn celebrated his milestone, goaltender Lukas Dostal delivered the performance that secured the victory. The Czech netminder made 40 saves before stopping both attempts in the shootout.Mikael Granlund and Cutter Gauthier each scored in the shootout after Artturi Lehkonen tied the game 1-1 for Colorado with 3:39 remaining in regulation. Scott Wedgewood made 16 saves for the Avalanche in the losing effort. "Super special," Gauthier said of Killorn's milestone."Not too many players play 1,000 games in the National Hockey League, and it couldn't have happened to a better person and a great player, too. So, I'm super happy we're able to get the two points, especially on his 1,000th game."Head coach Joel Quenneville praised Killorn's impact beyond just his on-ice contributions. "I think Killer gives us a real presence as far as playing the right way and doing the right things," Quenneville said.The victory improved Anaheim to 28-19-5 on the season as they continue their push toward playoff positioning. The Ducks will look to extend their winning streak to six games when they visit Seattle on Friday night.