Every NHL player enters a season with something to prove—whether it’s showing that a breakout year wasn’t a fluke or proving they belong in the league. But for the Anaheim Ducks, three players stand out with the most to prove as we head into the 2024-2025 season.
1. Mason McTavish
Mason McTavish wrapped up the 2023-2024 season with 19 goals and 23 assists in just 64 games. While his overall point total was only one shy of the previous season, it’s worth noting that he played 16 fewer games, and his performance after the start of the season was hampered by injuries—like much of the Ducks roster.
When McTavish was healthy, he flashed his potential to be a key player for the Ducks. He showed his ability to battle in tight spaces, excel in rushes, and expanded his offensive game, learning to better control the pace and create plays. After Adam Henrique’s departure, McTavish also led the team in face-off percentage, taking the most draws by far.
However, his defensive game and discipline took a step back. His penalty minutes nearly doubled, ranking fifth in the NHL for penalties, as he struggled to adapt to a new system under head coach Greg Cronin. Cronin emphasized defending without relying on stick infractions, yet McTavish found himself in the box far too often.
Despite this, McTavish’s offensive talent remains undeniable. The big question is whether his defensive struggles were just a symptom of adjusting to the new system or a larger concern. This season, McTavish has the opportunity to show that his lapses were an anomaly and that he can be a complete two-way player.
While eligible for a contract extension, it’s likely both McTavish and GM Pat Verbeek will want to see how the season unfolds. Verbeek’s history of letting players finish their contracts before starting negotiations suggests McTavish will have the chance to prove himself before talks begin.
2. Trevor Zegras
After a challenging season marked by contract disputes and injuries, Trevor Zegras is heading into the most pivotal year of his career. His 15 points in 31 games last season were a far cry from his previous back-to-back 60-point campaigns. While much of his season was derailed by circumstances beyond his control, Zegras will need to show that he can bounce back and regain his form.
On the positive side, Zegras made notable strides defensively, an area of his game that has been heavily scrutinized. Now, it’s about proving he can stay healthy and merge his offensive creativity with his improved defensive play to become a more complete player.
Zegras is also under a microscope due to trade speculation. If he wants to remain a key piece of the Ducks’ future, he will need to show Verbeek that he can be a winning player and part of the team’s long-term vision.
3. Cutter Gauthier
It may seem premature to place rookie Cutter Gauthier on a list of players with the most to prove, but given his circumstances, it’s justified. After being traded to Anaheim for Jamie Drysdale in a shocking deal, all eyes are on Gauthier to see if he can live up to the lofty expectations that come with his arrival.
Gauthier’s journey has been impressive so far—winning gold with Team USA at the World Juniors, nearly capturing an NCAA title, and being a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. But the NHL is a different beast, and Gauthier will have to prove that he can translate his success to the pro level.
With fans eagerly watching his every move—especially when the Ducks face his former team, the Philadelphia Flyers, in January—Gauthier will have to show flashes of the player he can become. It’s a long road, but his commitment to the team is already evident, as seen in his attendance at development camp and his offseason training.
Honorable Mentions
- Lukas Dostal: In a contract year, Dostal needs to prove he can handle the pressure of being part of a 1A-1B goalie tandem. While his highs have been impressive, consistency will be key.
- Troy Terry: After signing a big contract extension, Terry will be looking to bounce back following a disappointing season. With his growing family, he’ll want to prove he’s worth every penny.
These three players—McTavish, Zegras, and Gauthier—each have something different to prove this season, but their performances will be pivotal in shaping the Ducks’ future. Who do you think has the most to prove in 2024-2025?
Thank you for reading, and GO DUCKS!
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