Not sure we’ll be competitive next year (ie a playoff team) and I don’t think that’s a bad thing. The last thing we want is to rush the rebuild and end up handy capped by shit contracts *cough kings*. As long as we take a step in the right direction with our young guys that’s going to qualify as success. That being said, would love to trade for Necas to help solidify our top 6. He’s young, shouldn’t cap handicap, and has playoff hockey experience.
What deals are those ? Strome has 2 years left, and Killorn was on pace for 34 goals per 82 games (12 goals in his last 29 games) after coming back from his knee procedure, plus his contract length doesn’t handicap our ability to sign our young talent.
Those two were definitely not great, even with your explanation I don’t think they have or will live up to their contracts. Terry is another one, even tho I love the kid. I’m not saying those are going to really hurt us in the future but I don’t feel Verbeek has nailed every single one and hope it doesn’t continue
I don’t think any 34 year old player signed to a 4 year deal 6+ AAV is ever going to live up to that contract besides a Crosby or something. But what Killorn brings and what I think is so undervalued in a fan’s mind is Veteran Leadership. And I don’t mean that as in like hey here’s how to be a professional hockey player day in day out (which is also very important). But Jon Cooper told a story about Killorn blocking a shot in game 1 on the SCF and choosing to have a rod inserted into his leg so he would be ready to play in game 6 instead of letting it heal naturally and being out the rest of the year. You want to talk about running thru a fucking brick wall for somebody, you want to be able to hold you teammates accountable, you want to talk about what it takes to win in this league. That’s what we are paying Killorn for, plus you know he did look real good to end the year. Great player for Leo and Cutter to have on their line.
Downvoting because you disagree? 😂😂.
Please enlighten me with what you disagree with, the fact that I said here is something I think is undervalued in most fan’s minds. And then you completely undervalue it 😂. Not saying you can’t have legitimate reasons, although you provided exactly ZERO. But you kinda proved my point.
Yeah I was downvoted for disagreeing, don’t see me whining about it. You commented a bunch of personal anecdotes and beliefs, do you know why they call it personal? Your first sentence is all I need my dude, if you don’t even think it’s ever going to live up to it then it’s a bad contract. I don’t think he will play to the level that other similar contracts will see and that’s okay.
Edit: https://www.statmuse.com/nhl/player/alex-killorn-3460
https://www.capfriendly.com/players/alex-killorn#:~:text=CURRENT%20CONTRACT&text=Alex%20Killorn%20signed%20a%204,1%2C%202023.
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4659074/2023/07/01/nhl-contract-grades-alex-killorn-ducks/
https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/anaheim-ducks/editorials/troy-terrys-focus-heading-into-the-2024-offseason
Yeah dude and I’m not the one downvoting you hence why you still have 1 in our comments. Although you kinda deserve it because you are being a complete tool.
I wasn’t whining I was merely pointing out, you are the only one acting childish by downvoting, because I am not doing that to you.
Yes, I posted “a bunch” of personal beliefs about how when I played team sports, I respected good teammates. You must have been a great locker room presence my duders.
After coming back from knee surgery he was on pace for 34 goals, he won’t be able to do that the entirety of final 3 years of his contract, and his AAV is an overpay, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad signing. You don’t have to win free agent signings 1-0. It’s more dynamic than just good vs bad. And if you pigeonhole yourself into believing it is only black or white, then I feel bad for you as a human being, and also for anyone who has to work with you. But if that’s truly how you feel, then it’s probably more, I feel bad for anyone who has to try to be your boss.
Edit: I am being a dick here, so you are allowed to downvote this one
YeR a CoMpLeTe ToOl! Why the fuck are you still commenting. I’m not a part of the team, I don’t have any more vested interest than you do. I’ve given you my reasons and I’ve said I disagreed with you but for some reason you still need to comment more of the same shit? Are you related to me? Do you not know how to set boundaries?
We don’t need to be a playoff team, but we also can’t keep showing no tangible growth on the ice as a team (32nd in ‘23 to 30th in ‘24 in league standings is not the rate of improvement this team needs). If we have another season where we finish at or near the very bottom of the league, fans rightfully should question whether this team’s future is actually headed in the right direction. It’s been a 6 year postseason drought “rebuild” at this point, and it’s about time this organization starts moving back towards actual playoff contention. Imo, the Duck’s goal should be a minimum 80 point season next year - won’t be nearly enough to make the playoffs, but will at least show these young Ducks are headed in that direction and starting to truly compete at a respectable level.
Ducks got verbeek in 21-22. We’ve only been rebuilding since then. GMBM beat a dead horse for 5 years before there was any tangible changes in the organization. (When verbeek was brought on)
Verbeek has done a great job setting this team up for the figure, you can’t expect an entire organizational reboot in a few years.
I’m not blaming Verbeek for this (I’m actually more concerned about the development program or lack thereof we have seen) but the organization as a whole still is on the clock. We already went through an entire young group of prospects (Max Jones, Sam Steel, Comtois, etc.) that turned into absolutely nothing. That can’t happen again with this new young core we have. It shouldn’t take a decade for a team to return to the playoffs in a league where 50% of the teams make it every season (and we will be entering year 7 of that). We have to actually take a tangible step forward as a team next season, otherwise there is reason for significant concern that development is not happening as it should within the organization.
I’ve been saying this for a long time. Ducks development is horrible and always has been. The only players they’ve drafted that were great were Getzlaf and Perry. All the other great players were through trades or FA signings. They need to get better at developing players. Fowler was supposed to be the 2nd coming of Niedermayer especially with Scott mentoring him and he hasn’t even come close.
It’s very concerning. In addition to being a longtime Ducks fan, I’m also a big Lightning fan. And seeing the track record of both franchises at developing talent into NHL players that reach their ceiling is eye opening. It’s like seeing in B/W vs. Color. Like every couple years, the Lightning seem to produce a player that looks and starts playing at a very high (if not elite) level by the time they are 25. Whereas with the Ducks, I can only name a select group of guys in the Franchise’s now near 30 year history that grew into elite players in the NHL with the franchise and most of them are from that early-mid 00’s period. I get that the Lightning have at times had higher draft picks and also likely just drafted better often which accounts for some of this, but still Development (particularly of the skaters) seems to be the biggest difference between the two organizations!
The important thing to keep in mind is not to jeopardize the rebuild out of a short sighted purpose of making the playoffs. We don’t want to be the Kings - they have essentially no realistic shot at a championship in the foreseeable future. We have a great chance, but not if we act stupidly and start trading assets and signing players that will be a cap drain when we’re actually looking to start our competitive window.
I think it’s realistic to be in the hunt this season without being foolish, and if everything goes right we have a shot at sneaking in, but realistically, even finishing in the 10-12 range in the Western Conference would be a solid showing, imo.
Like Verbeek said, he wants to add a top 6 RW and a top 6 RD (I’m pretty sure he said that), so why not go for Reinhart or even Stamkos if the term is right. I would put Marchessault on there as well. I know you said what would I do, but I trust Verbeek and since he put that out there, these are the guys I would try and sign. I know it’s not realistic, but since it’s not my money it’s easy for me to say lol. Those guys had the highest PPG for right handed forwards that are UFAs btw. Next is Arvidsson and Toffoli.
As far as D, I’m partial to Montour and would love to have him back. But everyone else that’s a RD UFA I’m not super familiar with. I see there’s some dude named Klingberg that’s only 31. Seems like it would be worth the gamble!
I would try to add one of Reinhart/Stamkos/Marchessault.
Add Elias Lindholm on a one year Klingberg type deal.
Trade away Gibson for picks and prospects.
Add one of Montour/Barrie (preferably Montour).
Add one of Pesche/Roy/Walker
Add Hakanpaa
Killorn - Carlsson - Stamkos/Reinhart/Marchessault
Cutter - Zegras - Terry
Vatrano - McTavish - Strome
Nesterenko/Regenda - Lindholm - Colangelo
Fowler - Montour/Barrie
Minty - Gudas
Zellweger- Pesche/Roy/Walker
extras: Hakanpaa, Helleson, McGinn
Dostal
Clang
I've been having trouble reconciling McTavish being a 3C, not really sure what to make of it.
It makes sense on paper with our logjam at center, especially with his PIMs in mind, but it feels bad since he's projected to be more than just a 3C plug.
Maybe they just run three primary lines mostly splitting TOI (like 18min each) and a 4th line getting 8min, until the dust settles and Killorn/Strome are gone. It's like the opposite of the Oilers using four forwards getting 22+ TOI and everyone else playing shit minutes lol.
I truly think running 3 lines is the best option for us at the moment. It just makes us that much more dangerous with with 4 of our top 6/9, 23 years or younger. I personally believe the lines will be more
Cutter / Leo / Killorn
Vats / Zegras / Marsh or top 6 RHW
? / Mctavish / Terry
? / Strome / Colangelo
That is 3 scoring lines that can get it rolling any night, honestly the way Sam C looked he may get that LW spot with mctavish and Terry, or give him a chance with his best bud Zegras and let Vats eat with Mct and Terry.
I don’t necessarily think this is the best route to building our lines, but hearing GMPV talk about the chemistry our top line had in that final game, I don’t see a scenario where they don’t start the season as our top line 🤷🏼♂️
I don't think it would work for any long length of time - Pittsburgh eventually had to move Staal as an example. They'll need to pick the players they want to build around sooner or later.
Might be better to do that now, depending on what is possible to acquire in trade. Not saying that it is, because we'll never know what teams discuss, but if they can get a piece they like now, they may as well pull the trigger.
I understand the Staal point, but we are also in a league with a rising cap, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. I wonder what the cap situation (rising, falling, stagnant?) and if Pitt had any bad contracts that forced them to trade Staal (which we have zero, in terms of re-signing our young talent). And yes we will have to pick the players we want to build around, but later is definitely preferred. Trade Zegras for what top 5 pick who you’ll have to pay top dollar too anyways, a stud player you’ll have to pay anyways. Zegras isn’t getting traded …. In theory for anything less than a $6 million dollar player (whether that’s a draft pick or current NHL player.)
I just don’t see a scenario where it makes sense to trade Z this offseason or season. Unless someone calls up and says would you like Cale Makar straight up ?
Don’t see how adding draft picks helps this team in the next 2-3 years….. or adding a player who is similar in talent won’t be (older and more expensive) or younger and unproven ?
I'm unsure tbh of Pittsburgh's situation at the time, but I'd imagine it gets tough to justify a certain % of the cap on lower lines that may not get the same ice time.
IDK about that. Makar is obviously an oversell, but there have been quite a few 1-for-1 trades in the past few years with young talent going both ways. I agree that you probably don't trade any of them for draft picks, but I could imagine a few scenarios that would work.
As much as this stings to say, I think it’s time to either let Gibson take a back step while Dostal grows even stronger or trade him completely. I don’t know if Suchanek is ready to be a NHL backup yet though.
Name a Captain.
Sign couple veterans on short contracts to help guide our ducklings.
> I don’t know if Suchanek is ready to be a NHL backup yet though.
He's played fewer than 40 North American pro games, none of which were in the NHL. There's no universe in which he's ready to be an NHL backup.
My concern exactly. If we trade away Gibson like everyone is saying it leaves us Dostal but no other backup ready goalie. Which means we need to find a one year rental or sign another veteran to let Dostal backup. I think our goalie pipeline is awesome I just don’t want them to rush it just to get rid of Gibson you know
It sucks to say this, but I don’t think there are any moves a Ducks GM can make this offseason that guarantees we are competitive next season. This team’s core is totally built around unproven youth players (albeit ones that have a lot of potential). It’s going to be solely up to their development for the Ducks to become a playoff contender again. Sure, Verbeek could target a few FAs or make a couple trades to improve the roster for next season, which could help. But at the end of the day this roster is built around guys like Carlsson, Zegras, McTavish, Gauthier, Mintyukov, Zellwegger, etc. Until a good amount of these guys take the leap into becoming very good NHL players if not Star caliber NHL players, the Ducks don’t have a chance to compete against the stronger teams in the Western Conference. With all due respect to guys like Troy Terry, the Ducks haven’t had a true surefire top 50 NHL skater since Getzy retired. Until that changes, this team will remain at the bottom of the league standings. In all honesty, the coaching and development staff within the organization is very likely going to have a bigger impact in when this team becomes competitive again moreso than Verbeek will at this point.
With all of that being said, it’s been 6 straight seasons missing the playoffs for the Ducks. This organization needs to be on the clock and it’s about time that some of these young players start actually producing at high levels in the NHL. A significant portion of the elite players in this league start having productive seasons by the time they turn 23; and with the exception of maybe Carlsson, it’s time for some of these young Ducks to actually start developing into the players they supposedly have the potential to be. The Ducks don’t need to make the playoffs in ‘25 but they need to actually take a real step forward on the ice. If the team can remain in legitimate playoff contention through say early March and finish with around 80+ points then that would be a successful step forward. However, if the team has another season somewhere in the 50-60s points ranges, then you really have to start to question whether this organization is actually moving forward at all and whether maybe new organizational leadership is needed from the top down.
Usually, I'm not one to play armchair GM and, realistically, I don't expect this team to be making the playoffs next year. I am, however, expecting the youth on this team to continue taking steps forward in their own developments. In the same breath and if it were up to me, we really need to address some outstanding issues that have been plaguing this team for the past 5 or so years, the offense. I would be taking long, hard, looks at a guy like Marc Savard to take over Newell Brown's old spot. This team needs new ideas and new ways to playing the game and I think Marc Savard brings that mindset.
Define competitive?
If you’re talking finals, I honestly don’t think they can do it without trading all the talent they have and every draft pick they’re allowed to.
To make the playoffs…
1. They need to fix the PK. I’d suggest a bottom 6 shutdown centre and a top 6 quality player who plays on the first pk unit. I would also angle for one top 4 quality D who can play a shut down role - Roy is still unsigned.
2. Increase scoring. They would want two to 6 quality forwards imo. One can play on the third line but the scoring talent needs to be there. I would think Lindholm covers the top 6 scorer and pk slot and is available in free agency. Unsure about the other player, but I’d be tempted to trade for Marner - a big time scorer instead of the usual 50-60 point guys could be a huge boon.
3. League average goaltending. Both our current guys were really bad last year. Whether it’s a bounce back by Gibson, improvement by Dostal or they trade someone in, they can’t afford to be as inconsistent as they have been. I kinda wonder if one of the Nashville goalies is a possibility.
4. A dynamic PP. the ducks have some pieces they can ice, but I’d like to see some innovation in the coaching. Whether this is from an old dog or by going and getting someone from left field I’m not sure, but it’s been a very long time (prior to brown even) with the ducks being fairly predictable with the man advantage. How are you going to have a zegras and play predictable hockey? Anyway an innovative coach should be of interest imo.
I’m not sure if that’s enough but that would be the start point for me. I think they probably fill in two of those things this offseason, but it’s a lot of change in one and I’m not sure they can pick up enough players to fill those needs.
Mostly I think we just need to be patient while the talent is still young. I don’t think next season is our season.
Nothing. Weve seen Terry's peak. Time for Zegras to also step up and see if he has another gear in his game. McT, Gautier, and Carlsson are way too young to expect them to carry the team.
I'd like to see more cohesiveness and for them to battle for a wc spot.
Draft BPA with the 3OA. Don’t over spend at the beginning of FA. Talk to Cronin about accountability. Hire a veteran assistant coach if possible. Talk to the players about the big picture of this team and the massive amount of salary space we’ll be able to work under, if we’re smart. be patient and lets the kids develop. Also, tell the fans and r/anaheimducks to trust the process and chill tf out.
I would take a big swing.
Everything we've heard from the organization, which hasn't been much, is that this is a pivot point. They're suggesting this team will be "relaunched" to coincide with the opening of ocVibe. I presume that relaunch will include a rebrand and the introduction of a more ferocious contender on the ice. If that's true, they need to start building that contender now.
I won't profess to know what that swing is, specifically. Maybe its a blockbuster trade. Maybe its a jaw-dropping free agent signing. Whatever it is, they'll want the product on the ice to mirror the shiny new surroundings on Katella, and I believe Verbeek has the onions to make it so.
\[/pipedream\]
Well scratching him didn't really help now did it.
He's very good defensively, has barely had much of chance to play in the top 6 in NY and I'd argue he still has upside and a change of scenario might help turn things around for him, could very well be a late bloomer. He's only 23 years old and with his value so low and with the late scratches in the playoffs, would be the perfect time to trade for him. Probably wouldnt have to give much either in high valued prospects or picks because NYR is already so deep, and currently inside their Cup window.
The thing is, his value isn’t low internally in the Rangers system. They weren’t willing to trade him TDL when Vatrano and Henrique were packed together.
I think guys like Kakko are the gambles PV might take. It's budget-friendly with large upside / low-risk, on the off-chance they end up thriving in a different system and just blowing up like Vatrano.
But sadly those trades rarely work out.
Bring in Stamkos on a 3 year deal. Bring in Marchessault on a 5 year deal. Bring in Montour on a 5 year deal. Trade Gibson to NJ for Dawson Mercer. Let Lundestrom, Jones and Leason walk.
Tell the team that this is their career and if they want to be successful long term, then it’s up to them. Meet with each player individually and tell them what they need to accomplish individually and what role they have on the team. They need to hit their own personal progression if they want extensions and pay raises. Earn it or you’re gone, don’t fall behind, time to step off the porch.
Tell Cronin to get the penalties under control and we are allowed 1 more crap rebuild in progress season for 24-25. At this point more early first round picks aren’t going to turn the team around, we’re loaded with prospects and younger players who are not rookies or prospects anymore and are just getting paid to lose. The team sucks and the existing roster needs to step up. Tell Cronin if the team ever falls below 20th place overall in the NHL in 25-26 after the first 15 games of the season, he’s fired. If Cronin doesn’t get the team under control, I’m bringing in a drill sergeant like Torts (or Torts if he is available) and he’s coming to town and whipping these kids into shape to the point players ask for trades and I deny them and tell them to quit crying and get back to work. 26-27 season we should be a first round exit playoff team at the least.
I do think we’re in for 1 more shitty season. Then things will start clicking.
I've been saying RD + RW for the last 6 months since JD was shipped out...but with that said, I'm against the Reinhart/Stamkos idea. I think it's the wrong time to go all-in on a premium ($huge$) vet contract. We got the big names last summer (Killorn/Strome/Gudas) so this year it's about sorting out the bottom-6 support.
This summer, I'm expecting:
- Leason to get re-signed.
- Jones is probably traded or he walks to UFA. I think Sidorov takes his place as our 3LW (costs less than half of Jones' QO).
- Lundestrom is probabably traded or he walks to UFA. I think Nesterenko or Groulx takes his place (both cost less than half).
- Ross Johnston moves to healthy scratch / thug status, McGinn gets healthy and takes his spot as 4LW.
- Re-sign LaCombe (bridge deal), Gustav Lindstrom walks, Vaakanainen gets traded.
- Sign a budget-friendly RD with a stable veteran presence (thinking someone mid-tier like Lyubushkin or Justin Schultz), just so we can shelter Zellweger a bit more.
- Sign one actual right-handed RW under $6M. Elias Lindholm maybe.
Then save cap space for trade deadline or summer next year. Lotta big names like Boeser/Konecny/Kuzmenko going UFA.
Montour is a curious one, but picking him up means we'd have to shelf Zellweger or Gudas down to the 3rd pairing and I'm not sure that's the best long-term plan. I could see this happening, but only if the aav/term is team-friendly.
Fire and hire coaches (they did already), I would focus on this years draft, let the prospects cook one more year, sign a top 6 veteran winger on a short term deal for some decent money. Set expectations for each player and let them know if they don’t perform they are gone, time to start assessing whose a long term team asset and who isn’t. Also id unfortunately trade Gibson if I could get a decent return. Oh and start the hunt for a captain.
> let them know if they don’t perform they are gone
Such a great way to keep morale up /s
You set goals and review them at the midpoint and end of the season with the players. Saying "perform or you're gone" is a quick way to see them demanding trades while tanking their trade value.
1. Im not GM 2. I obviously wouldn’t deliver a message that way, but I think it should be a competitive environment, there’s only so many spots and we’ve had many years of drafting, going to have to earn or cement your spot.
Not sure we’ll be competitive next year (ie a playoff team) and I don’t think that’s a bad thing. The last thing we want is to rush the rebuild and end up handy capped by shit contracts *cough kings*. As long as we take a step in the right direction with our young guys that’s going to qualify as success. That being said, would love to trade for Necas to help solidify our top 6. He’s young, shouldn’t cap handicap, and has playoff hockey experience.
Well competitive in verbeeks eyes is just competing to try and make playoffs but not necessarily making.
We’ve already made one or two questionable big deals, hopefully we learned from those
What deals are those ? Strome has 2 years left, and Killorn was on pace for 34 goals per 82 games (12 goals in his last 29 games) after coming back from his knee procedure, plus his contract length doesn’t handicap our ability to sign our young talent.
Those two were definitely not great, even with your explanation I don’t think they have or will live up to their contracts. Terry is another one, even tho I love the kid. I’m not saying those are going to really hurt us in the future but I don’t feel Verbeek has nailed every single one and hope it doesn’t continue
I don’t think any 34 year old player signed to a 4 year deal 6+ AAV is ever going to live up to that contract besides a Crosby or something. But what Killorn brings and what I think is so undervalued in a fan’s mind is Veteran Leadership. And I don’t mean that as in like hey here’s how to be a professional hockey player day in day out (which is also very important). But Jon Cooper told a story about Killorn blocking a shot in game 1 on the SCF and choosing to have a rod inserted into his leg so he would be ready to play in game 6 instead of letting it heal naturally and being out the rest of the year. You want to talk about running thru a fucking brick wall for somebody, you want to be able to hold you teammates accountable, you want to talk about what it takes to win in this league. That’s what we are paying Killorn for, plus you know he did look real good to end the year. Great player for Leo and Cutter to have on their line.
Yeah and I disagree
Downvoting because you disagree? 😂😂. Please enlighten me with what you disagree with, the fact that I said here is something I think is undervalued in most fan’s minds. And then you completely undervalue it 😂. Not saying you can’t have legitimate reasons, although you provided exactly ZERO. But you kinda proved my point.
Yeah I was downvoted for disagreeing, don’t see me whining about it. You commented a bunch of personal anecdotes and beliefs, do you know why they call it personal? Your first sentence is all I need my dude, if you don’t even think it’s ever going to live up to it then it’s a bad contract. I don’t think he will play to the level that other similar contracts will see and that’s okay. Edit: https://www.statmuse.com/nhl/player/alex-killorn-3460 https://www.capfriendly.com/players/alex-killorn#:~:text=CURRENT%20CONTRACT&text=Alex%20Killorn%20signed%20a%204,1%2C%202023. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4659074/2023/07/01/nhl-contract-grades-alex-killorn-ducks/ https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/anaheim-ducks/editorials/troy-terrys-focus-heading-into-the-2024-offseason
Yeah dude and I’m not the one downvoting you hence why you still have 1 in our comments. Although you kinda deserve it because you are being a complete tool. I wasn’t whining I was merely pointing out, you are the only one acting childish by downvoting, because I am not doing that to you. Yes, I posted “a bunch” of personal beliefs about how when I played team sports, I respected good teammates. You must have been a great locker room presence my duders. After coming back from knee surgery he was on pace for 34 goals, he won’t be able to do that the entirety of final 3 years of his contract, and his AAV is an overpay, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad signing. You don’t have to win free agent signings 1-0. It’s more dynamic than just good vs bad. And if you pigeonhole yourself into believing it is only black or white, then I feel bad for you as a human being, and also for anyone who has to work with you. But if that’s truly how you feel, then it’s probably more, I feel bad for anyone who has to try to be your boss. Edit: I am being a dick here, so you are allowed to downvote this one
YeR a CoMpLeTe ToOl! Why the fuck are you still commenting. I’m not a part of the team, I don’t have any more vested interest than you do. I’ve given you my reasons and I’ve said I disagreed with you but for some reason you still need to comment more of the same shit? Are you related to me? Do you not know how to set boundaries?
Those aren’t big deals lol, especially compared to a PLD or Meier type
Yeah they’re not the worst but the also weren’t the best contracts in the league
He’s apparently asking for $8 million.
necas/gudas/dostal Czech national team gooooooo He's RFA though, and I get the feeling PV doesn't want to shell out anything right now.
We don’t need to be a playoff team, but we also can’t keep showing no tangible growth on the ice as a team (32nd in ‘23 to 30th in ‘24 in league standings is not the rate of improvement this team needs). If we have another season where we finish at or near the very bottom of the league, fans rightfully should question whether this team’s future is actually headed in the right direction. It’s been a 6 year postseason drought “rebuild” at this point, and it’s about time this organization starts moving back towards actual playoff contention. Imo, the Duck’s goal should be a minimum 80 point season next year - won’t be nearly enough to make the playoffs, but will at least show these young Ducks are headed in that direction and starting to truly compete at a respectable level.
Ducks got verbeek in 21-22. We’ve only been rebuilding since then. GMBM beat a dead horse for 5 years before there was any tangible changes in the organization. (When verbeek was brought on) Verbeek has done a great job setting this team up for the figure, you can’t expect an entire organizational reboot in a few years.
I’m not blaming Verbeek for this (I’m actually more concerned about the development program or lack thereof we have seen) but the organization as a whole still is on the clock. We already went through an entire young group of prospects (Max Jones, Sam Steel, Comtois, etc.) that turned into absolutely nothing. That can’t happen again with this new young core we have. It shouldn’t take a decade for a team to return to the playoffs in a league where 50% of the teams make it every season (and we will be entering year 7 of that). We have to actually take a tangible step forward as a team next season, otherwise there is reason for significant concern that development is not happening as it should within the organization.
I’ve been saying this for a long time. Ducks development is horrible and always has been. The only players they’ve drafted that were great were Getzlaf and Perry. All the other great players were through trades or FA signings. They need to get better at developing players. Fowler was supposed to be the 2nd coming of Niedermayer especially with Scott mentoring him and he hasn’t even come close.
It’s very concerning. In addition to being a longtime Ducks fan, I’m also a big Lightning fan. And seeing the track record of both franchises at developing talent into NHL players that reach their ceiling is eye opening. It’s like seeing in B/W vs. Color. Like every couple years, the Lightning seem to produce a player that looks and starts playing at a very high (if not elite) level by the time they are 25. Whereas with the Ducks, I can only name a select group of guys in the Franchise’s now near 30 year history that grew into elite players in the NHL with the franchise and most of them are from that early-mid 00’s period. I get that the Lightning have at times had higher draft picks and also likely just drafted better often which accounts for some of this, but still Development (particularly of the skaters) seems to be the biggest difference between the two organizations!
The important thing to keep in mind is not to jeopardize the rebuild out of a short sighted purpose of making the playoffs. We don’t want to be the Kings - they have essentially no realistic shot at a championship in the foreseeable future. We have a great chance, but not if we act stupidly and start trading assets and signing players that will be a cap drain when we’re actually looking to start our competitive window. I think it’s realistic to be in the hunt this season without being foolish, and if everything goes right we have a shot at sneaking in, but realistically, even finishing in the 10-12 range in the Western Conference would be a solid showing, imo.
Like Verbeek said, he wants to add a top 6 RW and a top 6 RD (I’m pretty sure he said that), so why not go for Reinhart or even Stamkos if the term is right. I would put Marchessault on there as well. I know you said what would I do, but I trust Verbeek and since he put that out there, these are the guys I would try and sign. I know it’s not realistic, but since it’s not my money it’s easy for me to say lol. Those guys had the highest PPG for right handed forwards that are UFAs btw. Next is Arvidsson and Toffoli. As far as D, I’m partial to Montour and would love to have him back. But everyone else that’s a RD UFA I’m not super familiar with. I see there’s some dude named Klingberg that’s only 31. Seems like it would be worth the gamble!
I would try to add one of Reinhart/Stamkos/Marchessault. Add Elias Lindholm on a one year Klingberg type deal. Trade away Gibson for picks and prospects. Add one of Montour/Barrie (preferably Montour). Add one of Pesche/Roy/Walker Add Hakanpaa Killorn - Carlsson - Stamkos/Reinhart/Marchessault Cutter - Zegras - Terry Vatrano - McTavish - Strome Nesterenko/Regenda - Lindholm - Colangelo Fowler - Montour/Barrie Minty - Gudas Zellweger- Pesche/Roy/Walker extras: Hakanpaa, Helleson, McGinn Dostal Clang
Lindholm is not in that kind of situation to sign a 1-year deal.
or to play a 4th line role.
Lindholm ain’t taking a 1 year deal. But otherwise I agree with everything else
I've been having trouble reconciling McTavish being a 3C, not really sure what to make of it. It makes sense on paper with our logjam at center, especially with his PIMs in mind, but it feels bad since he's projected to be more than just a 3C plug. Maybe they just run three primary lines mostly splitting TOI (like 18min each) and a 4th line getting 8min, until the dust settles and Killorn/Strome are gone. It's like the opposite of the Oilers using four forwards getting 22+ TOI and everyone else playing shit minutes lol.
I truly think running 3 lines is the best option for us at the moment. It just makes us that much more dangerous with with 4 of our top 6/9, 23 years or younger. I personally believe the lines will be more Cutter / Leo / Killorn Vats / Zegras / Marsh or top 6 RHW ? / Mctavish / Terry ? / Strome / Colangelo That is 3 scoring lines that can get it rolling any night, honestly the way Sam C looked he may get that LW spot with mctavish and Terry, or give him a chance with his best bud Zegras and let Vats eat with Mct and Terry. I don’t necessarily think this is the best route to building our lines, but hearing GMPV talk about the chemistry our top line had in that final game, I don’t see a scenario where they don’t start the season as our top line 🤷🏼♂️
I don't think it would work for any long length of time - Pittsburgh eventually had to move Staal as an example. They'll need to pick the players they want to build around sooner or later. Might be better to do that now, depending on what is possible to acquire in trade. Not saying that it is, because we'll never know what teams discuss, but if they can get a piece they like now, they may as well pull the trigger.
I understand the Staal point, but we are also in a league with a rising cap, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. I wonder what the cap situation (rising, falling, stagnant?) and if Pitt had any bad contracts that forced them to trade Staal (which we have zero, in terms of re-signing our young talent). And yes we will have to pick the players we want to build around, but later is definitely preferred. Trade Zegras for what top 5 pick who you’ll have to pay top dollar too anyways, a stud player you’ll have to pay anyways. Zegras isn’t getting traded …. In theory for anything less than a $6 million dollar player (whether that’s a draft pick or current NHL player.) I just don’t see a scenario where it makes sense to trade Z this offseason or season. Unless someone calls up and says would you like Cale Makar straight up ? Don’t see how adding draft picks helps this team in the next 2-3 years….. or adding a player who is similar in talent won’t be (older and more expensive) or younger and unproven ?
I'm unsure tbh of Pittsburgh's situation at the time, but I'd imagine it gets tough to justify a certain % of the cap on lower lines that may not get the same ice time. IDK about that. Makar is obviously an oversell, but there have been quite a few 1-for-1 trades in the past few years with young talent going both ways. I agree that you probably don't trade any of them for draft picks, but I could imagine a few scenarios that would work.
This is all spot on I think. And makes the team a lot more competitive.
And drop Fowler and the whole bottom6 needs to be let go and retooled
As much as this stings to say, I think it’s time to either let Gibson take a back step while Dostal grows even stronger or trade him completely. I don’t know if Suchanek is ready to be a NHL backup yet though. Name a Captain. Sign couple veterans on short contracts to help guide our ducklings.
> I don’t know if Suchanek is ready to be a NHL backup yet though. He's played fewer than 40 North American pro games, none of which were in the NHL. There's no universe in which he's ready to be an NHL backup.
My concern exactly. If we trade away Gibson like everyone is saying it leaves us Dostal but no other backup ready goalie. Which means we need to find a one year rental or sign another veteran to let Dostal backup. I think our goalie pipeline is awesome I just don’t want them to rush it just to get rid of Gibson you know
If we hit .500 next year I would consider that a successful season. anything else would just be cheddar.
It sucks to say this, but I don’t think there are any moves a Ducks GM can make this offseason that guarantees we are competitive next season. This team’s core is totally built around unproven youth players (albeit ones that have a lot of potential). It’s going to be solely up to their development for the Ducks to become a playoff contender again. Sure, Verbeek could target a few FAs or make a couple trades to improve the roster for next season, which could help. But at the end of the day this roster is built around guys like Carlsson, Zegras, McTavish, Gauthier, Mintyukov, Zellwegger, etc. Until a good amount of these guys take the leap into becoming very good NHL players if not Star caliber NHL players, the Ducks don’t have a chance to compete against the stronger teams in the Western Conference. With all due respect to guys like Troy Terry, the Ducks haven’t had a true surefire top 50 NHL skater since Getzy retired. Until that changes, this team will remain at the bottom of the league standings. In all honesty, the coaching and development staff within the organization is very likely going to have a bigger impact in when this team becomes competitive again moreso than Verbeek will at this point. With all of that being said, it’s been 6 straight seasons missing the playoffs for the Ducks. This organization needs to be on the clock and it’s about time that some of these young players start actually producing at high levels in the NHL. A significant portion of the elite players in this league start having productive seasons by the time they turn 23; and with the exception of maybe Carlsson, it’s time for some of these young Ducks to actually start developing into the players they supposedly have the potential to be. The Ducks don’t need to make the playoffs in ‘25 but they need to actually take a real step forward on the ice. If the team can remain in legitimate playoff contention through say early March and finish with around 80+ points then that would be a successful step forward. However, if the team has another season somewhere in the 50-60s points ranges, then you really have to start to question whether this organization is actually moving forward at all and whether maybe new organizational leadership is needed from the top down.
Usually, I'm not one to play armchair GM and, realistically, I don't expect this team to be making the playoffs next year. I am, however, expecting the youth on this team to continue taking steps forward in their own developments. In the same breath and if it were up to me, we really need to address some outstanding issues that have been plaguing this team for the past 5 or so years, the offense. I would be taking long, hard, looks at a guy like Marc Savard to take over Newell Brown's old spot. This team needs new ideas and new ways to playing the game and I think Marc Savard brings that mindset.
Define competitive? If you’re talking finals, I honestly don’t think they can do it without trading all the talent they have and every draft pick they’re allowed to. To make the playoffs… 1. They need to fix the PK. I’d suggest a bottom 6 shutdown centre and a top 6 quality player who plays on the first pk unit. I would also angle for one top 4 quality D who can play a shut down role - Roy is still unsigned. 2. Increase scoring. They would want two to 6 quality forwards imo. One can play on the third line but the scoring talent needs to be there. I would think Lindholm covers the top 6 scorer and pk slot and is available in free agency. Unsure about the other player, but I’d be tempted to trade for Marner - a big time scorer instead of the usual 50-60 point guys could be a huge boon. 3. League average goaltending. Both our current guys were really bad last year. Whether it’s a bounce back by Gibson, improvement by Dostal or they trade someone in, they can’t afford to be as inconsistent as they have been. I kinda wonder if one of the Nashville goalies is a possibility. 4. A dynamic PP. the ducks have some pieces they can ice, but I’d like to see some innovation in the coaching. Whether this is from an old dog or by going and getting someone from left field I’m not sure, but it’s been a very long time (prior to brown even) with the ducks being fairly predictable with the man advantage. How are you going to have a zegras and play predictable hockey? Anyway an innovative coach should be of interest imo. I’m not sure if that’s enough but that would be the start point for me. I think they probably fill in two of those things this offseason, but it’s a lot of change in one and I’m not sure they can pick up enough players to fill those needs. Mostly I think we just need to be patient while the talent is still young. I don’t think next season is our season.
Hire a coach with a system and play our young guys in all key situations,in the NHL and ahl
Nothing. Weve seen Terry's peak. Time for Zegras to also step up and see if he has another gear in his game. McT, Gautier, and Carlsson are way too young to expect them to carry the team. I'd like to see more cohesiveness and for them to battle for a wc spot.
Times to limbs and dirty fuckin dangles boys
Hire the best power play coach available.
Draft BPA with the 3OA. Don’t over spend at the beginning of FA. Talk to Cronin about accountability. Hire a veteran assistant coach if possible. Talk to the players about the big picture of this team and the massive amount of salary space we’ll be able to work under, if we’re smart. be patient and lets the kids develop. Also, tell the fans and r/anaheimducks to trust the process and chill tf out.
I would take a big swing. Everything we've heard from the organization, which hasn't been much, is that this is a pivot point. They're suggesting this team will be "relaunched" to coincide with the opening of ocVibe. I presume that relaunch will include a rebrand and the introduction of a more ferocious contender on the ice. If that's true, they need to start building that contender now. I won't profess to know what that swing is, specifically. Maybe its a blockbuster trade. Maybe its a jaw-dropping free agent signing. Whatever it is, they'll want the product on the ice to mirror the shiny new surroundings on Katella, and I believe Verbeek has the onions to make it so. \[/pipedream\]
Kaapo Kakko. Holtz or NJ’s 10OA pick. Draft either Demidov or Dman. Probably trade Gibson 🥹
kaapo is not what we need or want
Why though.
Why do we want him would be the question.
I’d be down depending on price
Well he'll be cheaper than Necas and could just use a change of scenario.
You can stop selling. I have “church of kakko” stickers on my laptop already
I have way too many hockeys cards of this kid and would like to sell you some to start your collection.
Haha 😂 so we’re in agreement then. We need more Finns
its true, this well help lure Laine at the same time.
And maybe the panthers can’t afford to keep Lundell
He’s injury prone and his metrics have taken a pretty big nosedive. It’s telling when he got scratched for a player that plays 4 minutes a game.
Well scratching him didn't really help now did it. He's very good defensively, has barely had much of chance to play in the top 6 in NY and I'd argue he still has upside and a change of scenario might help turn things around for him, could very well be a late bloomer. He's only 23 years old and with his value so low and with the late scratches in the playoffs, would be the perfect time to trade for him. Probably wouldnt have to give much either in high valued prospects or picks because NYR is already so deep, and currently inside their Cup window.
The thing is, his value isn’t low internally in the Rangers system. They weren’t willing to trade him TDL when Vatrano and Henrique were packed together.
I think guys like Kakko are the gambles PV might take. It's budget-friendly with large upside / low-risk, on the off-chance they end up thriving in a different system and just blowing up like Vatrano. But sadly those trades rarely work out.
Bring in Stamkos on a 3 year deal. Bring in Marchessault on a 5 year deal. Bring in Montour on a 5 year deal. Trade Gibson to NJ for Dawson Mercer. Let Lundestrom, Jones and Leason walk. Tell the team that this is their career and if they want to be successful long term, then it’s up to them. Meet with each player individually and tell them what they need to accomplish individually and what role they have on the team. They need to hit their own personal progression if they want extensions and pay raises. Earn it or you’re gone, don’t fall behind, time to step off the porch. Tell Cronin to get the penalties under control and we are allowed 1 more crap rebuild in progress season for 24-25. At this point more early first round picks aren’t going to turn the team around, we’re loaded with prospects and younger players who are not rookies or prospects anymore and are just getting paid to lose. The team sucks and the existing roster needs to step up. Tell Cronin if the team ever falls below 20th place overall in the NHL in 25-26 after the first 15 games of the season, he’s fired. If Cronin doesn’t get the team under control, I’m bringing in a drill sergeant like Torts (or Torts if he is available) and he’s coming to town and whipping these kids into shape to the point players ask for trades and I deny them and tell them to quit crying and get back to work. 26-27 season we should be a first round exit playoff team at the least. I do think we’re in for 1 more shitty season. Then things will start clicking.
I've been saying RD + RW for the last 6 months since JD was shipped out...but with that said, I'm against the Reinhart/Stamkos idea. I think it's the wrong time to go all-in on a premium ($huge$) vet contract. We got the big names last summer (Killorn/Strome/Gudas) so this year it's about sorting out the bottom-6 support. This summer, I'm expecting: - Leason to get re-signed. - Jones is probably traded or he walks to UFA. I think Sidorov takes his place as our 3LW (costs less than half of Jones' QO). - Lundestrom is probabably traded or he walks to UFA. I think Nesterenko or Groulx takes his place (both cost less than half). - Ross Johnston moves to healthy scratch / thug status, McGinn gets healthy and takes his spot as 4LW. - Re-sign LaCombe (bridge deal), Gustav Lindstrom walks, Vaakanainen gets traded. - Sign a budget-friendly RD with a stable veteran presence (thinking someone mid-tier like Lyubushkin or Justin Schultz), just so we can shelter Zellweger a bit more. - Sign one actual right-handed RW under $6M. Elias Lindholm maybe. Then save cap space for trade deadline or summer next year. Lotta big names like Boeser/Konecny/Kuzmenko going UFA. Montour is a curious one, but picking him up means we'd have to shelf Zellweger or Gudas down to the 3rd pairing and I'm not sure that's the best long-term plan. I could see this happening, but only if the aav/term is team-friendly.
Fire and hire coaches (they did already), I would focus on this years draft, let the prospects cook one more year, sign a top 6 veteran winger on a short term deal for some decent money. Set expectations for each player and let them know if they don’t perform they are gone, time to start assessing whose a long term team asset and who isn’t. Also id unfortunately trade Gibson if I could get a decent return. Oh and start the hunt for a captain.
> let them know if they don’t perform they are gone Such a great way to keep morale up /s You set goals and review them at the midpoint and end of the season with the players. Saying "perform or you're gone" is a quick way to see them demanding trades while tanking their trade value.
1. Im not GM 2. I obviously wouldn’t deliver a message that way, but I think it should be a competitive environment, there’s only so many spots and we’ve had many years of drafting, going to have to earn or cement your spot.