The Anaheim Ducks Nominate Ville Husso for the Bill Masterton Trophy
The Anaheim Ducks have officially put forth goaltender Ville Husso as their nominee for the 2025-26 Bill Masterton Trophy, an accolade recognizing an NHL player’s dedication to the sport, commitment, and resilience. The winner will be determined by all 32 chapters of the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) at the conclusion of the season.
Husso’s Journey and Reflections
Reflecting on his journey, Husso shared,
“A couple of injuries a few years back hindered my confidence and performance. However, since joining Anaheim, both here and with the San Diego Gulls, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive. I strive to cherish every moment, as the hockey season passes quickly.”
Husso, 31, came to the Ducks from the Detroit Red Wings shortly before the 2024-25 trade deadline on February 25, with the Ducks acquiring him in exchange for future considerations. His stint in Anaheim is significant because he has been a much-needed veteran presence following some injuries faced by starter John Gibson last season. The Ducks’ management was impressed by Husso’s performance, which led to a two-year contract extension valued at a $2.2 million salary cap hit.
Performance and Impact
“Being part of the Ducks organization during this promising time is truly gratifying,” Husso stated. “The team is progressing well and competing in crucial games at the right time of the year; that’s what any player desires.”
Previously, Husso had a standout season with the St. Louis Blues in 2021-22, achieving a record of 25 wins, 7 losses, and 6 overtime losses, along with a save percentage of .919 and three shutouts. He was subsequently traded to the Red Wings, who envisioned him as a foundational goaltender, signing him to a three-year contract worth an average annual value of $4.75 million. However, his time in Detroit was turbulent, marred by injuries and diminished performance, resulting in his eventual demotion on the team’s depth chart.
In the 2024-25 season, following an unclaimed waiver assignment, he became part of the Ducks’ organization, where he rekindled his skills after a tough stint in Detroit that included 84 games played and a .892 save percentage. His performance post-trade was marked by a turnaround, with notable statistics including a 7-2-0 record and two shutouts in the AHL. When recalled to the NHL, he maintained a commendable .925 save percentage over four games with the Ducks, reflecting his resurgence.
Husso’s presence has been vital to the Ducks’ goalkeeping rotation this season, working alongside Lukas Dostal. In a challenging season for many netminders, their collaboration has bolstered the Ducks’ playoff aspirations.
“My teammates have been incredibly welcoming, and following a player like Dostal daily enhances my game,” added Husso. “Being part of this team and organization is very rewarding.”
Looking Ahead
As the Ducks approach the final games of the regular season, Husso has participated in 19 outings, starting 18 matches and holding a record of 9-8-2 with an .887 save percentage. Despite the statistics being modest, his steady performance during pivotal moments, particularly when Dostal was sidelined, exemplified his role as a reliable backup. His understanding of angles and puck positioning sharpens his effectiveness in net, even if he’s not the most athletic goalie in the league.
Husso remains under contract with the Ducks for one more year with a cap hit of $2.2 million, likely continuing his role as Dostal’s backup through the 2026-27 season.
