Anaheim's Forward Core

Heading into the 24/25 season, the Anaheim Ducks figured to be a true contender for the cup. A slow fall and winter slump, led them to be bottom feeders, until they picked it up in the spring to limp into the playoffs. After a disappointing first round exit for the Anaheim Ducks in the playoffs, they look to regroup and try to be more competitive and more successful next season. Let’s take an in depth look into the roster moving into 2025/2026. Starting with a look at the forwards, most of the Ducks’ forward core return for the upcoming season. GM VideoJ is looking at signing extensions for the RFAs and locking them up for the next few seasons. Let’s see if there are any holes up front.

Starting with the players under contract, Brad Marchand, Boone Jenner, Bryan Rust, and Jonathan Huberdeau look to turn around their seasons from last year, hopefully developing and building on their chemistry from last season. All 4 of these veterans underperformed, especially captain Brad Marchand, who didn’t even manage a .5 point per game pace. Looking into next season, there has to be a fire under these guys, or it could spell the end of their time in Anaheim for one of them. Mikael Backlund and James Van Riemsdyk are the other two aging players that will be working in the bottom 6 as veteran energy and penalty killer guys, while helping to lead the young guys on the team.

Speaking of young guys, Anaheim is very excited to see Connor Mcmichael break out this year. We are hoping to see him solidify a role as a top 6 centre on our team. Anaheim has also locked up superstar in the making, Seth Jarvis, for the next 4 seasons, who looks to slot into the top 6 and improve on his 57 point season. Shane Pinto has looked like he’s starting to hit his stride, and should lock in as the 3rd line centre for now and the future. Isac Lundestrom is returning on a one year deal. He too is in the hot seat after being a first round draft pick that just hasn’t seemed to reach his potential. He will most likely play on the 4th line wing and help out on the PK. Possibly the most important piece of the puzzle, after leading the team in points and goals, Alex Debrincat is cashing in on an 8 year contract. Patrik Laine who has had a very roller coaster type of career was also extended in order to round out the middle 6. With these signings, the lines look like they could potentially look as follows.

Seth Jarvis  - Boone Jenner - Alex Debrincat

Brad Marchand - Connor McMichael - Bryan Rust

Jonathan Huberdeau - Shane Pinto - Patrik Laine

James Van Riemsdyk - Mikael Backlund - Isac Lundestrom

Barring any big signings or trades, it seems as though the forward group is pretty solid for the 25/26 season. There is a good amount of depth on the roster, with scoring threats and defensive minded players throughout. We shall see if GM VideoJ tried to bring in any additional talent up front.