30 teams in 30 days: Anaheim Ducks
Finished: 8th in western conference, 2nd in pacific division
Playoffs: Lost in second round to Detroit
Leading scorers from last year: Ryan Getzlaf 91, Corey Perry 72, Scott Niedermayer 59, Bobby Ryan 57
Who did they add?: Saku Koivu, Nick Boynton, Luca Sbisa, Joffrey Lupul
Who did they lose?: Chris Pronger, Francois Beauchemin
Overview: Anaheim looks to be in a fantastic position for next year, with their core group of players returning, plus a few key additions this offseason. The additions of Saku Koivu and Joffrey Lupul should give them some added punch and second line scoring, taking pressure off Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Bobby Ryan. The one question mark for the Ducks is their blue line, which sustained heavy casualties with the losses of Chris Pronger and Francois Beauchemin. They added Nick Boyton, who is getting on in years but is still a reliable top 4 defenceman and Luca Sbisa, a second year player who might be able to play top 4 but is more of a 3rd pair kinda guy, who should flourish with some experience. The Ducks goaltending remains solid, with Jonas Hiller emerging as one of the best young goalies in the league while JS Giguere remains a more than competent backup. The Ducks could emerge a contender for the cup next season if their blue line can stay healthy.
Winner or loser?: In my opinion, the Anaheim Ducks were winners this offseason, but it remains to be seen if the loss of Chris Pronger will take a heavy toll.
