Anaheim Ducks

Unleash the Mighty Ducks: A Tale of Triumph and Transformation

Discover the incredible team out West that draws inspiration from a beloved 1992 Disney movie. The Anaheim Ducks burst onto the scene as an expansion team in 1993, boasting the ownership of the Walt Disney Corporation and proudly donning the title of the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. Even their jerseys captured the magic of the movie, creating a truly enchanting moment for the sport.

But their success didn’t take long to materialize. With the acquisition of Teemu Selanne in a trade with the Winnipeg Jets in 1996, the then-Mighty Ducks soared into the playoffs in 1997, just four years into their existence. They triumphed in their first-round series against Calgary before falling to the eventual Stanley Cup champions, the Detroit Red Wings.

 

While the Mighty Ducks faced some challenges in the following years, including the trade of Selanne to the Sharks, they made a resounding comeback in 2002. Led by original draftees like Paul Kariya and Steve Rucchin, as well as outstanding goaltending by Jean-Sebastian Giguere, the Mighty Ducks bulldozed through the Western Conference playoffs, earning their first appearance in the finals.

Although they fell short against the New Jersey Devils, the series was a thrilling seven-game showdown. In 2005, Disney sold the team, leading to a rebranding and removal of the “Mighty” from the team’s name. The Anaheim Ducks returned to the Finals in 2007, capturing their first and only Stanley Cup, a remarkable achievement within just 14 years of the team’s conception.

Ducks of a Feather

Despite being a franchise for only 27 years, the Anaheim Ducks have made a significant impact. They have clinched playoffs berths 14 times, won their division 6 times, and conquered the ultimate prize in 2007. Meanwhile, there are still 11 teams in the NHL who have yet to hoist the Stanley Cup. Anaheim’s success stems from exceptional management and exceptional talent. Throughout their history, the team has been graced by a parade of iconic players, from the Mighty Ducks era to the present-day Anaheim Ducks. Legends like Selanne, Kariya, Giguere, the Niedermayer brothers, Pronger, and fan favorites Getzlaf and Perry have all played pivotal roles in keeping the Ducks perennial contenders.

Click Here & Explore NHL Betting!

The Present Ducks

The 2019-20 Anaheim Ducks can be summed up with two key statistics. Among the 31 NHL teams, they ranked 21st in goals for and 25th in goals against, leading to a lackluster season. However, it’s worth noting that the Ducks faced the 6th toughest schedule, adding context to their struggles.

Despite the disappointment of finishing with a 29-33-9 record in the shortened season, the Ducks found solace in securing the 6th overall pick in this year’s draft. Additionally, they acquired the 27th pick in the first round through a trade with the Boston Bruins. This trade, which involved talented winger Ondrej Tase, ensured that the Ducks are actively building for the future.

Furthermore, it’s important to consider the bigger picture. The team boasts a relatively young roster, with only six players aged 30 or above among the 26-man lineup. The 2nd line, consisting of Rickard Rackell, Adam Henrique, and Jakob Silfverberg, emerged as the most productive line of the season. All three players are under 30 and finished among Anaheim’s top 5 point producers. Henrique, in particular, led the team with 26 goals and 43 points, narrowly surpassing veteran captain Ryan Getzlaf in the scoring department.

Bob Murray, Anaheim’s general manager, continues his tenure into his 12th season with the franchise, which remains under the ownership of Henry Sameuli, who acquired the team from the Disney Corporation in 2005. Meanwhile, Dallas Eakins leads the team as head coach, aiming to turn around their losing record after just one season at the helm.

Looking Ahead

As we enter the 2022-2023 season, the Ducks are determined to continue their legacy of success. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the team and their standout players as they strive to make their mark in the NHL.

Still Here?

Check out everything about NHL!