The Anaheim Ducks probably could’ve used a preseason.
A tight turnaround to make the 2021 NHL season happen meant trimming down the schedule as much as possible. Preseason games, which would require additional travel and rest time were deemed as unnecessary for the season to happen.
But after ten months away, the Ducks drew the short straw in facing the Vegas Golden Knights to begin the 2021 season. They couldn’t afford to wade into the season and fix the kinks in their game on the fly.
Some things can’t be avoided, it seems.