The Anaheim Ducks’ Playoff Drought
The Anaheim Ducks are facing a significant challenge as they have not reached the playoffs since the 2017-2018 season. This extended absence has led them to draft among the top ten picks for seven years in a row, resulting in a robust and promising pool of prospects waiting in the wings. Over this time, several young talents have moved up to the NHL and contributed on a full-time basis, including the likes of Mason McTavish, Leo Carlsson, and Pavel Mintyukov, yet the Ducks still have a rich array of talent ready to emerge.
Spotlight on Lucas Pettersson
Amid speculation on how the Ducks, also referred to as ‘Rangers West’ due to their connections with New York, can restore their playoff presence, attention is drawn to their promising prospects. The spotlight this time turns to Lucas Pettersson, who ranks fifth on the list of young players showing significant potential.
Pettersson, a Swedish center chosen 35th overall in the recent draft, mirrors the style of fellow prospect Eric Nilson but is noted for his offensive capabilities. He showcases fundamental behaviors desirable in a center—efficient puck management in both offensive and defensive scenarios and solid backchecking skills. Sean Madden, the assistant general manager and director of amateur scouting, highlighted Pettersson’s intelligence on the ice and anticipates that with continued development, he will thrive in the NHL.
Development and Future Prospects
Last season, Pettersson struggled to find a consistent opportunity in Sweden’s top-tier SHL but ultimately found his stride after joining Ostersunds IK in HockeyAllsvenskan, where he scored 19 points in 26 games. He will return to the SHL next season on loan to Brynas IF, where he can benefit from playing alongside established NHL talents such as Jakob Silfverberg. Madden is optimistic that this could provide Pettersson with a better environment to excel.
As with many players in their formative years, Pettersson’s focus is now on enhancing his physical strength and playing skills during this offseason, now free from pre-draft chaos. Interestingly, Madden sees similarities between Pettersson and former Duck William Karlsson, while also drawing comparisons to the time when both Karlsson and Rickard Rakell were in the Ducks’ system, hinting at a potentially bright future for Pettersson and his counterpart Nilson.
Team Updates
In other team-related news, the Ducks have recently secured contracts with key players including Drew Helleson for two years and Lukas Dostal for five years, while also extending one-year deals to Calle Clang and Myšák.
