Ducks’ biggest reasons for hope-concern during 2024-25 season

The Anaheim Ducks continue to struggle in the 2024-25 NHL season, sitting at just 23 points through 25 games. Despite a six-year playoff drought, there are glimpses of optimism within the organization. However, critical concerns—particularly around their underperforming young forwards—still loom large.

Reasons for Hope: Lukas Dostal and Goaltending Stability

One of the brightest spots for the Ducks has been Lukas Dostal, the 24-year-old goaltender who has taken significant strides this season. With a .921 save percentage and a 2.73 goals-against average over 15 games, Dostal is showing elite potential. Despite his impressive play, his record sits at 6-7-1, largely due to a lack of defensive support and poor goal production from the offense.

Dostal has faced the fifth-most expected goals among NHL goalies, per MoneyPuck, despite playing fewer games than most of his peers in the top 15. His performance demonstrates resilience and hints at a long-term solution in net. With John Gibson still serving as a steady veteran presence, the Ducks appear to have a strong goaltending tandem to anchor their rebuild.

The Ducks’ priority this offseason will be to secure Dostal, a restricted free agent, with a long-term contract.

Reasons for Concern: Young Forwards Struggling

The Ducks’ rebuild is centered around promising forwards, but their lack of offensive production has been a significant concern. Trevor Zegras, Mason McTavish, Cutter Gauthier, and Leo Carlsson were all high draft picks, but none have delivered as expected this season:

Trevor Zegras: The most established of the group, Zegras signed a second contract with Anaheim but has struggled to live up to expectations. He has just 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in 25 games, following a disappointing 2023-24 season. Trade rumors surrounded him last summer, but the Ducks chose to keep him, banking on a resurgence that has yet to materialize.

Cutter Gauthier: Acquired in a trade with Philadelphia, Gauthier has managed 11 points in 25 games. While a decent start for a rookie, it falls short of the Ducks’ hopes, especially given the Jamie Drysdale trade used to acquire him.

Mason McTavish: Once seen as a cornerstone center, McTavish has continued to underperform. With two goals in 19 games and poor faceoff stats (winning only 46.7%), his development is a growing concern.

Leo Carlsson: The youngest of the group, Carlsson is still finding his footing in the NHL, and while patience is warranted, his impact has been minimal thus far.

Jacob Trouba’s Leadership

The addition of Jacob Trouba in a trade with the New York Rangers provides a veteran presence on the blue line. Trouba’s leadership is expected to help guide young defensemen like Jackson LaCombe and Olen Zellweger. If Trouba can stabilize the defense, he may contribute to converting Lukas Dostal’s stellar play into more wins.The Ducks’ rebuild hinges on the success of their young forwards. While Lukas Dostal provides hope in net, the lack of offensive firepower threatens to waste his efforts. General Manager Pat Verbeek has assembled promising talent through trades and the draft, but the forwards must deliver for Anaheim to break out of its lengthy playoff drought.