The Anaheim Ducks start the 2020-21 NHL regular season under a cloud of uncertainty. Not since the team’s early days have they missed the postseason three consecutive times. The Ducks added Kevin Shattenkirk during the offseason, but are otherwise the same team that finished 13th in the Western Conference last season. That said, I would be shocked if they qualified for the playoffs in 20-21.
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At the center of the uncertainty is long-time Ducks captain, Ryan Getzlaf. Since being selected with the 15th overall pick during the now-infamous 2003 NHL entry draft, he has become the face of the franchise. The 35-year-old quickly rose to success as a central figure in the teams first and only Stanley Cup victory in 2007.
The Regina, Saskatchewan native has also had a tremendous individual career. After reaching the 1,000 games played mark last season, he is now only 23 points from setting the franchise record – held by Teemu Selänne – and 35 points from reaching the 1,000 point mark.
Heading into 2021 he has amassed 274 goals and 691 assists (965) over 1053 career NHL games. Getzlaf has also been to the all-star game on three different occasions and named to the NHL’s second all-star team in 2014.
Big Decisions
It has been a great run for Getzlaf in Anaheim, but could the end be in sight? 2013 seems like a long time ago, but that is when he signed an eight year contract that expires this season. Simpler yet, he is about to become an unrestricted free agent.
My guess is that the two sides have already discussed what might happen beyond this season. Maybe the captain will decide he wants to retire as an Anaheim Duck. Or he may want to find a role with a contending team and an opportunity to win another championship.
The outcome of those discussions will directly impact how GM Bob Murray approaches the situation. If the Ducks drop out of a postseason bid, could Getzlaf be traded to a contending team before the April 12th trade deadline? That would be a shock to the organizational system, but perhaps that is what this franchise needs – a proverbial passing of the torch.
Keep an eye on any transactions out of Southern California!
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