The Anaheim Ducks have made a scorching start to the season; let’s take a closer look at the key factors that have ignited this hot start to the season.
Greg Cronin – Since Greg Cronin joined the Anaheim Ducks, there’s been a remarkable transformation in the team’s identity, and it’s all for the better. Their level of intensity consistently outmatches their opponents in almost every game. In various interviews, Cronin has emphasized two quotes that guide his coaching philosophy. The first is a saying from Bill Belichick: “Practice preparation is always an indicator of game performance.” The second quote is from Vince Lombardi, “Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect,” is another core principle that Cronin instills in his team. You can clearly see this dedication when observing their practices – the team is putting in significantly more effort than they did under previous coaches. While the Ducks may not have the most skilled lineup, they bring a tenacious spirit to the ice every night, making each game highly competitive all the way til the end.
Mason McTavish – Mason is in the midst of an outstanding breakout year, surpassing the performances of many NHL players. What’s truly remarkable about McTavish is his ability to showcase creativity, exceptional vision, and an outstanding shot. However, what stands out the most are the little details he gets right. His hand-eye coordination is truly impressive; he’s shown the ability to knock the puck out of mid-air to prevent it from leaving the zone on the power play, reminiscent of his goal-line save in the World Juniors’ Gold Medal game in 2022. McTavish has also made significant improvements in the faceoff circle this year, leading the Anaheim Ducks in both faceoff wins and win percentage.
Pavel Mintyukov – In nearly every preseason forecast, the Anaheim Ducks’ prospect Olen Zellweger was the anticipated frontrunner to contend for the Calder Trophy. However, from the very first game of the season, Pavel Mintyukov has emerged as a standout presence as he is currently tied for first in rookie points. There’s no denying that Pavel has been the most remarkable rookie defenseman in the NHL this season. Despite the initial struggles of the Ducks’ first powerplay unit, Mintyukov has demonstrated his worth offensively both on the man advantage and at even strength, all while maintaining a strong defensive performance, as reflected by his impressive plus 4 rating for the season. He’s also very feisty and is making it clear that he won’t allow others to target him or subject him to the ‘welcome to the league’ treatment.
Frank Vatrano – While we’ve always recognized Frank’s lethal shot as his primary strength, what’s truly remarkable now is his seamless connection with a line that consistently generates numerous high-scoring chance opportunities for him. Even as one of the top goal scorers in the league, Vatrano continues to be a valuable presence across the ice, contributing with an average of 1.8 hits and 1.5 blocks per game.
Lukas Dostal – Dostal’s waited his turn for quite some time now, with the impressive numbers he’s put up in the first 4 weeks of the season, and with him winning the NHL’s Rookie of the Month, Gibson has the return to his old self if he wants to remain the 1A option in Anaheim, which he did in the most recent 4-2 victory over Vegas.
Ilya Lyubushkin – If nobody else is going to give the 6’2 Russian defensive defenceman the credit he deserves, I will. He plays a significant role in enabling his fellow countryman, Mintyukov, to shine offensively and take some risks on the rush. Ilya is currently 8th in the league with blocked shots.
Leo Carlsson – When Verbeek revealed the Ducks’ decision to draft the 6’3 Swede over the consensus 2nd overall pick, Adam Fantilli, it raised concerns within the fan base. However, it’s safe to say that many of those worries have now been put to rest. Carlsson has undeniably demonstrated his potential as an elite center with his deceptive speed, impressive stickhandling, and a remarkable hockey IQ.
Trevor Zegras – Trevor Zegras has undergone a significant shift in his on-ice priorities this season. While we already recognize his exceptional skill with the puck, that aspect of his game remains intact, and his point production will undoubtedly continue to impress. What’s truly commendable is his newfound reliability as a forward in the defensive zone. It’s evident that he’s put in the effort to evolve into a more complete player. It’s important to note that this is precisely the kind of development that Verbeek is seeking before considering a long-term deal for him.
The 4th Line – Who would have predicted that just 11 games into the season, Brett Leason would emerge as one of the Ducks’ top-ranking forwards in terms of Goals for Percentage (GOA%) in Even Strength Offense? And let’s not forget Sam Carrick, who has accumulated 5 points in the first 11 games, including 2 third-period goals in the most recent victory over the Vegas Golden Knights.
