What's Happening?
The Anaheim Ducks are preparing for the 2025-26 NHL season under the leadership of new coach Joel Quenneville. The team is looking to improve its offensive performance after finishing 30th in goals scored last season, with only 217 goals. This marks a continuation of their struggle, as they have ranked no higher than 24th in goals scored over the past seven seasons. Additionally, the Ducks' power play was the worst in the NHL last season, with a success rate of just 11.8 percent. To address these issues, the Ducks have acquired forwards Chris Kreider and Mikael Granlund to bolster their offensive capabilities. The team also faces challenges in improving their penalty kill, which was tied for 27th in the league, and their face-off winning percentage, which was the lowest in the NHL.
Why It's Important?
The Ducks' efforts to enhance their offensive and special teams are crucial for their chances of making the playoffs for the first time since 2018. The addition of Kreider and Granlund is expected to provide a much-needed boost to their scoring and power play efficiency. Improving their penalty kill and face-off success rate will also be vital for their overall competitiveness. These changes are significant as they aim to break a cycle of underperformance and re-establish themselves as a formidable team in the NHL. Success in these areas could lead to increased fan engagement and financial benefits for the franchise.
What's Next?
The Ducks will begin their regular season on October 7, 2025, with a focus on implementing the strategies and improvements under Coach Quenneville. The preseason game against the Utah Hockey Club on September 22 will serve as an opportunity to test new tactics and player combinations. The team's performance in the early games will be closely watched to assess the impact of the new acquisitions and coaching strategies. Stakeholders, including fans and analysts, will be keen to see if the Ducks can overcome their historical challenges and make a strong push for the playoffs.
Beyond the Headlines
The Ducks' strategic changes could have broader implications for the NHL, as other teams may look to similar approaches to improve their standings. The emphasis on enhancing offensive capabilities and special teams highlights a growing trend in the league to prioritize scoring and efficiency. Additionally, the Ducks' efforts to revitalize their performance could influence player market dynamics, as successful acquisitions may lead to increased demand for similar talent across the league.
