The Ducks will be missing two of the old familiars this season, with J.S. Giguere sent to Toronto late last year and Scott Niedermayer retiring. Seriously this time. After loathing him for so long while he was a Devil, it was a little odd to see him raise a Cup in Anaheim. Despite all of the hatred, even a Ranger fan has to appreciate his resume. Too bad a lot of it happened across the Hudson ... But back to the Quack Attack.
Familiar Foes: The Ducks have that albino Islander bridge troll Jason Blake but at this point in his career you hardly have to worry about him. You do have to be concerned with Ryan Getzlaf - one of the best all-around players in the NHL - and his wing-man Corey Perry. Jersey boy Bobby Ryan has not been re-signed at this point but it seems like a Dubinsky-esque certainty. Todd Marchant and Saku Koivu are shadows of the players they once were but Teemu Selanne is still dangerous. And if they add Paul Kariya (as is still rumoured) he and the Finnish Flash may be able to find a little of their old form.N00bz: Nick Bonino, Andy Sutton, Toni Lydman and Aaron Voros. Bonino was assistant captain at BU and had a nine game guest appearance late last season; he has serious skills. Sutton does not, as we well remember from his time headhunting with the Thrashers and Isles and his time as an expert in Ottawa. Lydman is quiet and capable but certainly not a real threat on either side of the ice. And the People's Champ, well, he may be able to block some of Prust's punches with his face, maybe hurting the Ranger's knuckles.
Last Year: Sunday, October 11th, a 3-0 Ranger win.
This Year: Just one game this season - in Anaheim on Wednesday, March 9th, 2011. That should be right before the annual 'oh crap, the playoffs are coming' last ditch pitch for eighth place.
What They Mean To Blue: Very little aside from two points. As a team out west, they won't be battling the Blueshirts for a playoff spot and there is no historical hatred. But, as we saw last year, two points can be the difference between the postseason and golf and the Ducks will likely be battling for a position in the playoffs as well so those two points could be tough to get.
Peepin' Foes Preview Edition: Anaheim Ducks
The Anaheim Ducks, a franchise known for its iconic logo and a history of success, are gearing up for another exciting NHL season. As the puck drops on a new campaign, it's time for another installment of "Peepin' Foes Preview Edition," where we provide an in-depth look at what to expect from the Anaheim Ducks in the upcoming season.
In this article, we'll delve into their roster, recent performance, key players to watch, and answer some frequently asked questions about the team. Whether you're a dedicated Ducks fan or just intrigued by this dynamic NHL franchise, our preview has got you covered.
Anaheim Ducks Roster Analysis
The Anaheim Ducks have been through a period of transition, aiming to balance their veteran leadership with emerging talent. Let's examine some key aspects of their current roster:
1. Offense:
The Ducks' forward group is led by Ryan Getzlaf, a longtime captain and playmaking center. Getzlaf is complemented by players like Rickard Rakell, Troy Terry, and Max Comtois, providing offensive potential.
2. Defense:
On the blue line, the Ducks feature Cam Fowler, a seasoned defenseman known for his offensive contributions. Fowler is joined by players like Hampus Lindholm and Josh Manson, providing defensive stability.
3. Goaltending:
In goal, the Ducks have John Gibson, a highly-regarded netminder with the ability to make remarkable saves. Gibson's performance and consistency are pivotal to the team's success.
Recent Performance
The Anaheim Ducks have faced challenges in recent years, including missing the playoffs in the highly competitive Western Conference. However, the team has been retooling its roster with an eye toward the future.
In the 2020-21 season, the Ducks finished sixth in the West Division, but they have made strategic moves to strengthen their roster and develop their young talent. The Ducks aim to return to playoff contention and compete for the Stanley Cup in the coming years.
Key Players to Watch
Ryan Getzlaf: Getzlaf is the Ducks' veteran leader and captain. His playmaking ability and experience make him a player to watch, both on and off the ice.
John Gibson: Gibson's performance in goal is crucial. His ability to make key saves and keep the Ducks competitive will be closely monitored.
Troy Terry: Terry is a young forward who has shown promise. His development and ability to contribute offensively will be important to the Ducks' success.
Cam Fowler: Fowler is an experienced defenseman known for his offensive skill. His ability to contribute from the blue line is integral to the Ducks' power play.
Hampus Lindholm: Lindholm is a dependable defenseman with a strong defensive game. His stability on the blue line is crucial for the Ducks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can the Ducks return to playoff contention in the upcoming season?
While the Ducks are in a transition phase, they have the potential to return to playoff contention with their mix of veteran leadership and young talent. Their success will depend on their performance during the season and their ability to develop their prospects.
2. How important is Ryan Getzlaf's leadership to the team's success?
Ryan Getzlaf's leadership is essential to the Ducks' success. His experience and ability to guide the team, both on and off the ice, set the tone for the franchise.
3. What is the Ducks' playing style known for?
The Ducks are known for their physical and defensive style of play. They prioritize strong defensive play and aim to be a tough team to score against.
*4. Are there promising prospects in the Ducks' organization?
Yes, the Ducks have promising prospects in their system, including Trevor Zegras and Jamie Drysdale. These young players represent the team's future and provide hope for the fan base.
*5. How does John Gibson impact the team's goaltending?
John Gibson's presence in goal significantly improves the Ducks' goaltending. His athleticism and ability to make difficult saves give the team a chance to win every game.
The Anaheim Ducks, a franchise with a history of success and a commitment to building for the future, are poised for another NHL season. With a blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent, they aim to return to playoff contention and compete for the Stanley Cup in the coming years.
As the new NHL season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Ducks as they work towards their goal of postseason success. Whether they achieve their goals or not, one thing is certain: the Anaheim Ducks will continue to be a team worth watching and supporting as they embark on their journey of hockey excellence. So, get ready for another exciting season of Ducks hockey as they aim to make their mark once more in the NHL.
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