Anaheim Ducks: NHL Renaissance? Analysis and Keys

The Anaheim Ducks: A Renaissance on the Horizon?

IRVINE, California – Chris Kreider, when asked about the transformation of the Anaheim Ducks into a more attractive destination, did not hesitate to share his perspective. “My first years here were a nightmare,” he stated, sparking the curiosity of everyone present. Kreider, known for his ability to recount anecdotes, described his experiences playing against the Los Angeles Kings, the San Jose Sharks, and the Ducks. The Kings, with their imposing size, and the Sharks, with figures like Brent Burns, Patrick Marleau, and Joe Thornton, represented significant challenges. “Burns pushed me against the boards and lifted me off the ice,” Kreider recalled, highlighting the intensity of the game. The situation in Anaheim was also not favorable for Kreider. “I don’t think he touched the puck in this building,” he commented, referring to the difficulty of facing players like Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf. This experience led Kreider to receive criticism from his coaches, who indicated that his performance was not as expected. Now, Kreider optimistically observes teammates like Leo Carlsson, Cutter Gauthier, and Jackson LaCombe, envisioning a promising future for the Ducks. He believes that in the future, rivals will speak of them with the same respect.

“From my perspective, the expectation is to make the playoffs,” said Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek.

Pat Verbeek

After seven seasons without reaching the postseason, the Ducks have built a solid development system, answering doubts about their direction. Although they didn’t make the playoffs last season, they achieved 80 points, their highest figure in six years. The offseason was crucial, with the transfer of John Gibson and Trevor Zegras, key figures of the team. Veterans like Mikael Granlund and Kreider were added, and long-term contracts were signed with young prospects. In addition, the team hired Joel Quenneville, a coach with NHL experience, after lifting his suspension. The decision to trade Gibson and Zegras, the arrival of veterans, and the confidence in young players are key elements for the future of the Ducks. Troy Terry, a key player on the team, expressed his optimism, indicating that the team no longer questions its ability to compete, but rather expects a solid performance.

Troy Terry has persevered through the Ducks’ drought years and is optimistic about the team’s direction.Martin Madden, assistant general manager and director of amateur scouting, has been fundamental in building the team. He has drafted 56 players who have reached the NHL, including key figures like Josh Manson, William Karlsson, and Rickard Rakell. Verbeek and Madden are looking for competitive, intelligent, and hardworking prospects. They have combined the experience of veteran players like Alex Killorn and Mikael Granlund with the development of young prospects.

Leo Carlsson was selected second overall in the 2023 NHL draft.The relationship between Carlsson and Granlund is an example of this strategy. The Ducks signed Granlund to serve as a mentor to Carlsson, providing him with advice and support in his development. Kreider and Trouba, who have gone through rebuilding processes, emphasize the importance of passing on knowledge and being a support for young players. Terry, the team’s most veteran player, highlights the organization’s commitment to long-term success. The arrival of Quenneville raises questions about his ability to lead the team, given that he hasn’t coached in the last four years. What he has learned after his involvement in a scandal at the Blackhawks is also questioned. Quenneville claims to have changed and is committed to creating a safe environment for everyone. Verbeek assures that the team is providing “constant education” and has implemented protocols to prevent problematic situations.

Joel Quenneville has faced several questions since he was hired by the Ducks, and that may continue at least through the first part of the 2025-26 season.Quenneville, who is 31 wins away from reaching 1,000 in his career, has demonstrated his ability to connect with young players. The question is whether he will be able to replicate this success with the Ducks. Carlsson is enthusiastic about the opportunity to improve under Quenneville’s direction, highlighting his focus on giving young players a fair chance.