New York Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer provided rather straightforward thoughts on his team's loss to the Anaheim Ducks.

Cale Makar had a goal and two assists, Nathan MacKinnon secured his fourth consecutive 100-point season with a third-period assist, and the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche snapped the Anaheim Ducks' five-game winning streak with a 5-1 victory Tuesday night.

As their unlikely season continues, the Anaheim Ducks are closing in on the Pacific Division lead.

Ryan Pulock was a full go at Wednesday morning’s skate, only for Patrick Roy to announce afterward that Pulock would not play against the Ducks.

The Anaheim Ducks host the New York Islanders at Honda Center on Wednesday, March 4 at 10 p.m. ET. The matchup airs on ESPN+. Anaheim's most recent game was a 5-1 home loss against the Colorado Avalanche on March 3.

Cale Makar had three points, Parker Kelly scored twice, Scott Wedgewood made 27 saves and Nathan MacKinnon reached the century mark in the victory. The Avs, who limped into the 2026 Winter Olympics break with six wins in 15 games (6-7-2) just went 4-1 during the most grueling stretch of their schedule this year.

The Anaheim Ducks have activated winger Frank Vatrano off of injured reserve. In a corresponding move, they have placed center Mikael Granlund, who is sidelined with an upper-body injury, on injured reserve.

The New York Islanders understand they can't rely on mounting dramatic comeback wins all the time. The Anaheim Ducks learned that the hard way on Tuesday night. The Islanders will look to remain hot Wednesday night when they visit the Ducks in the final clash of the season between a pair of surprise playoff contenders.