Olen Zellweger entered the preseason as one of the Anaheim Ducks’ most highly anticipated prospects, known for his speed, offensive skills, and strong work ethic. With his combination of talent and drive, there were initial expectations that Zellweger would secure a regular spot in the Ducks’ lineup for the upcoming season.
Zellweger’s skating is often highlighted as his standout attribute. His smooth, powerful stride allows him to quickly change direction and generate offense from the blue line, making him a noticeable presence when on the ice. His game is built around this mobility, making him a unique asset for the Ducks’ defensive corps. However, despite his potential, Zellweger’s performance in the 2024 preseason fell short of expectations.
Throughout the preseason, Zellweger’s impact was limited, and he struggled to stand out among his peers. Additionally, his smaller frame, at 5’9″, presents a challenge in meeting the physical demands of the NHL. Although Zellweger has been known for his dedication to improving his strength, size remains a factor, especially for a Ducks team built around a more physical style under GM Pat Verbeek.
With the Ducks’ defensive depth being tested throughout camp, both Jackson LaCombe and Tristan Luneau have received significant praise for their performances. As a result, Zellweger’s place in the lineup is uncertain, and he may face competition for ice time as the season progresses.
Preseason Performance and Impact on Lineup
While the Ducks’ opening night defensive pairings have not been officially confirmed, recent practices suggest that Zellweger may begin the season as an extra defenseman. The team has been experimenting with the following pairings during camp:
Zellweger and Urho Vaakanainen have been rotating as potential extras.
LaCombe’s strong preseason performance has been a key storyline. He has demonstrated maturity and confidence, leading the team in ice time in several games. His versatility has earned him a spot on both the top power play unit and the penalty kill, making him one of the most relied-upon defensemen for the upcoming season. This development has shifted expectations for LaCombe, positioning him as a significant contributor to the Ducks’ blue line.
Key Expectations for the Defense
Looking ahead, the Ducks’ defense is expected to feature a mix of veterans and young players. Gudas, recently named captain, will lead the group. Known for his physical play, Gudas will be expected to bring stability and leadership to the defense. However, managing his penalty minutes will be critical to maintaining consistency throughout the season.
LaCombe, who has made noticeable strides in his game, is expected to be a top-three defenseman for the Ducks, solidifying his role on both special teams. His rapid development places him in a position to make a considerable impact.
Mintyukov, who also had a strong camp, is anticipated to rotate in and out of the second power play unit alongside Zellweger and Luneau. While Mintyukov’s offensive potential is clear, his role will likely be shared with other young defensemen, which may limit his point production early in the season.
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Dumoulin, Mintyukov’s partner, is expected to provide a steady defensive presence, allowing his younger counterpart to contribute offensively. Acquired from the Seattle Kraken in exchange for a 2026 fourth-round draft pick, Dumoulin brings Stanley Cup-winning experience and reliability to Anaheim’s blue line.
Cam Fowler’s situation remains one of the more complex storylines. As one of the longest-tenured Ducks, his role has shifted in recent seasons. While Fowler brings experience, his style of play—which favors slowing down the pace and maintaining possession—may not align with the Ducks’ current strategy of playing at a faster tempo. There is ongoing speculation about whether Fowler could be moved by the trade deadline, though his contract presents challenges in making such a move feasible.
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As for Zellweger, his path to regular playing time may be dependent on Fowler’s status. Should Fowler remain with the team, Zellweger could continue to compete for a spot in the rotation, likely sharing time with Luneau. However, if a trade were to occur, Zellweger could see increased opportunities by midseason.
Luneau has impressed throughout training camp, earning praise for his composure under pressure and ability to make smart decisions with the puck. His strong performance suggests he may have already moved up the depth chart above Olen Zellweger, which could grant him more leeway in handling the typical inconsistencies of a rookie. As the season progresses, Luneau’s continued development will be crucial for solidifying his role on the blue line.
Urho Vaakanainen, who had a strong showing last season, faces stiff competition for ice time due to the depth in the Ducks’ defensive unit. While he remains a reliable option for the team, his playing time may be limited unless injuries open up opportunities throughout the season.
Conclusion
Overall, the Anaheim Ducks’ defense has seen significant growth in depth and talent compared to last season. With promising young players like LaCombe, Luneau, Mintyukov, and Zellweger competing for spots alongside experienced veterans, the team has a solid foundation for the future. However, how the defensive pairings ultimately shake out will be a key storyline to follow as the season progresses.
As the Ducks continue to build around their young core, Zellweger’s development remains a crucial factor in the team’s long-term plans, and his ability to adapt will determine how quickly he can cement his place in the lineup. What are your expectations for Ducks defensemen?
Thank you for reading, and GO DUCKS!
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ITR 35: Round One – Inside The Rink
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