A tough season to say would be an understatement for the Anaheim Ducks. Although they started strong, the tanking began towards the end of the season. This season is their fourth year in a row missing the playoffs. But there were many changes involved for the team this season as well.
With a record of 31-37-14, Anaheim Ducks finished seventh in the Pacific Division this season. As soon as the All-Star break had ended, the team started to go downhill.
Yes, there are many negatives about what the team went through this season. Many people are controversial letting Rickard Rakell go was a wrong move. Or giving away defensemen such as Hampus Lindholm and Josh Manson. But with there came positives that helped give the team balance.
On February 3, 2022, the Ducks hired a new general manager, Pat Verbeek, to help rebuild the team. Verbeek is keeping up with his words as he did make some scary trades this season. And although things didn’t work out for Anaheim this year, many believe that the team will be stronger next year and one to look out for during the season.
Key Players For the Ducks
There were numerous times when the Ducks had great moments—starting with the young talent like Troy Terry. He scored 37 goals and 30 assists in 75 games. He was the top forward for Anaheim, and he grew a huge fan base. Besides Terry, Trevor Zegras, who most may be familiar with because of his signature plays like the alley-oop and the Michigan. Zegras scored 23 goals and 38 assists in 75 games. He was quite the star on social media, according to many sights.
Defensemen Jamie Drysdale doesn’t get enough recognition for his outstanding plays throughout the season. Even though he had a few mixed-up moments, he’s proving how skilled he is on the ice. It’s clear to see he will advance as his NHL career continues. Other men on the ice like Sonny Milano, Isac Lundestrom, and Cam Fowler stepped up this season.
Goaltenders
Goaltender John Gibson had some ups and downs this season. He places 11th in overall goaltenders in the NHL this season. It’s unclear what route Anaheim will take when it comes to Gibson. There was backup goaltender Anthony Stolarz who was outstanding this season. He’s shown that he can be an elite goalie when Gibson is out for the Ducks.
Ducks Captain Retires
Another highlight this season was the Anaheim Ducks captain, Ryan Getzlaf, deciding to announce his retirement. The last home game was memorable for everyone but especially for Getzlaf. With Getzlaf being gone now, the team suffered a loss. He was known for the great assists he created on the ice throughout his career. Now, many people wonder who will step up to replace Getz. But let’s be clear, he’s irreplaceable.
Although this season didn’t turn out the way they had wanted it, it was still yet a memorable year. It’s only the beginning for this team; with much-needed rebuilding, the future is looking stronger and brighter for Anaheim.
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