Ducks considering Gudas for captaincy as rebuild progresses
The Anaheim Ducks, standing among the mere six NHL teams without a captain, are poised to potentially end their search for a team leader.
32 Thoughts Blog, Radko Gudas is a primary candidate for the captaincy, having recently represented the Ducks at the North American media tour.
At 34, Gudas is one of the senior figures in a predominantly youthful Ducks squad that is emerging from a period of rebuilding. Currently in the second year of a three-year deal, which compensates him with $4M annually, his leadership could be crucial for the Ducks during this transitional phase. With 748 NHL games under his belt, across four different teams, Gudas has accumulated 39 goals and 182 points-a modest tally reflective of his role as a defenseman rather than a forward.
Beyond his statistics, Gudas is renowned throughout the league for his physical play. Known for delivering some of the heaviest hits each season, he also brings a high level of emotion to the ice. This was on full display when the Florida Panthers ousted the Toronto Maple Leafs from the playoffs, with Gudas memorably confronting the opposing goalie during the post-game celebrations.
Choosing Gudas as captain might seem unconventional given the wealth of young talent in Anaheim and the promise of more on the horizon. Yet, this decision by new General Manager Pat Verbeek could signal a strategic move to influence the locker room's dynamics significantly. Appointing Gudas would not only provide a seasoned mentor for the upcoming talents but also help in cultivating a robust team culture that the younger players can embrace early in their careers.
As the Ducks continue to chart their course post-rebuild, the leadership role Gudas could play might be pivotal in shaping not just the team's identity but also its success in the coming seasons.
| POLL | ||
26 AOUT | 26 ANSWERS Ducks considering Gudas for captaincy as rebuild progresses Do you believe that Radko Gudas would make an excellent captain of the Ducks? | ||
| Yes | 9 | 34.6 % |
| No | 15 | 57.7 % |
| See Results | 2 | 7.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
