As the 2024-2025 NHL season approaches its conclusion, the Anaheim Ducks find themselves on the verge of missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the seventh consecutive year. Sitting nine points behind the Vancouver Canucks for the coveted wildcard spot in the Western Conference as of March 20, 2025, the Ducks have faced a challenging season. Despite showing some promise earlier in the season, winning seven of eight games between mid-January and mid-February, they have fallen off, with only two victories in their last 13 outings. Their current record stands at 29 wins, 31 losses, and eight overtime losses.
This dismal standing has prompted management, led by General Manager Pat Verbeek, to take steps to secure the future of the franchise. The Ducks recently made significant trades aimed at bolstering their roster for the upcoming seasons while introducing experienced players to guide their young prospects. The acquisition of veteran defenceman Jacob Trouba, brought in for Urho Vaakanainen and a conditional fourth-round pick in 2025, is a clear indication of the team's commitment to enhance their competitive edge moving forward. Additionally, the Ducks traded away Cam Fowler, a seasoned player, in exchange for prospect Jérémié Biakabutuka and a second-round pick in 2027.
While the Ducks are currently outside of playoff contention, there are glimmers of hope for the future, particularly surrounding their burgeoning young talent. Among the most notable young players is Mason McTavish, who has impressed this season with a total of 41 points in just 62 games. Alongside McTavish, Troy Terry stands out as the Ducks' leading scorer, with 50 points in 63 games, contributing to the excitement surrounding the team's rejuvenated roster. This influx of skilled young players indicates that the Ducks may soon be able to turn their fortunes around.
On the goaltending front, 24-year-old Lukas Dostal has seized the opportunity that arose from the injuries to longtime starter John Gibson. Dostal has been a beacon of stability, boasting a .908 save percentage this season while securing 20 wins in 44 starts, showcasing his potential as the Ducks’ goalie of the future. His performance has garnered positive attention, and many believe he could be the key to pushing the team back into playoff contention as they refine their overall performance.
The club's current lineup has received a significant boost from younger players, including Jackson LaCombe and Olen Zellweger, both of whom have transitioned into full-time NHL roles this season. LaCombe, a former top prospect, has registered an impressive 35 points in 61 games with a plus-four rating, while Zellweger has chipped in with 14 points in 50 games. These young defensemen are expected to play crucial roles as the Ducks continue their rebuilding efforts.
Verbeek's strategy is not merely focused on developing the current roster; he is also mindful of the future. The Ducks hold significant salary cap flexibility as they look to make additional moves during free agency or trades to acquire new talent. With the promising prospect Beckett Sennecke, selected third overall in 2024, currently lighting up the OHL with 85 points in 54 games, Anaheim fans have reasons to be optimistic about the Ducks’ future.
Among other notable prospects, Sasha Pastujov leads the AHL's Gulls with 42 points in 38 games, while Alexandre Blais is showcasing his skills in the QMJHL with 71 points in 58 games. Meanwhile, Artyom Galimov is making waves in the KHL with 59 points in 67 games, raising questions about his potential transition to North America. Defensively, Tristan Luneau, another promising addition from the 2022 draft, has amassed 42 points in 46 games with the Gulls and is expected to step into a more prominent role in the NHL soon.
Looking back, despite their struggles this season, the Ducks remain firmly committed to their long-term strategy, focusing on youth and development. As they reshape their roster, management is betting on the next generation's ability to bring success back to Anaheim, especially with veterans like Radko Gudas and Trouba providing mentorship on the blue line. If the current young core can keep progressing and the right acquisitions are made, brighter days are indeed ahead for this storied franchise.
In summary, while the Anaheim Ducks may be on the brink of missing the playoffs again, the strategic decisions made at the trade deadline, combined with the promising young talent emerging through their ranks, suggest that the franchise is on the right path towards becoming a competitive team in the NHL once again. Their efforts, both on and off the ice, will inevitably shape the legacy of the Ducks as they look to build a playoff contender for future seasons.
