As the Anaheim Ducks go into the 2023-24 season, they will look for improvement from everyone as they look to get out of the bottom of the NHL standings.
2022-23
Record: 23-47-12 (58 pts) – 8th in Pacific
Playoffs: Did Not Qualify
Key Losses
Kevin Shattenkirk (D – BOS), Anthony Stolarz (G – FLA), Dallas Eakins (Head Coach)
Key Additions
Alex Killorn (F), Radko Gudas (D), Robert Hagg (D), Greg Cronin (Head Coach), Alex Stalock (G)
2023-24 Preview
A Fresh Voice
The Anaheim Ducks had a challenging 2022-23 season, which saw the Ducks finish with a record of 23-47-12 and earning 58 points. They would place 8th in the Pacific Division and get the second overall pick in the NHL Draft which would see them select forward Leo Carlsson. Going into the offseason the Ducks were forced to make some changes behind the bench as they fired Dallas Eakins as head coach and hired Greg Cronin.
Cronin, who is entering his first season as an NHL head coach, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. Before joining the Ducks, Cronin worked as an assistant coach for the 12 seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Islanders. Cronin spent the last five seasons as the head coach of the Colorado Eagles of the American Hockey League.
Known for his strong defensive-minded approach, Cronin emphasizes discipline and structure in his coaching style. He has a track record of developing young players and helping them reach their full potential. Under his guidance, the Ducks hope to improve their performance and compete at a high level in the upcoming season.
The Youth Improvement
Among the promising prospects who can thrive under Cronin’s guidance are forwards Trevor Zegras and Troy Terry, along with defenseman Jamie Drysdale. In addition, the Ducks boast a pool of emerging talents vying to secure a spot in the opening night lineup, including forwards Carlsson, Jacob Perreault, Nathan Gaucher, and defensemen Olen Zellweger and Pavel Mintyukov. This infusion of youthful skill is sure to invigorate the team’s performance and captivate fans throughout the season.
The Ducks also made a splash in free agency when they signed two-time Stanley Cup champion forward Alex Killorn to a four year deal. Plus, the Ducks added rugged defender Radko Gudas, who played in the 2023 Stanley Cup Final with Florida, with a three year deal to add some veteran experience and leadership to the locker room.
While making the playoffs will be a long shot, the Anaheim Ducks will look for improvement throughout the 2023-24 season. With that improvement we could expect a Ducks team that finishes higher up in the standings.
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