With the Anaheim Ducks finally ending their goaltending by committee practice under former head coach Bruce Boudreau, the club is now settled on John Gibson as their everyday number one goalie.
But the decision to trade away Frederick Andersen this week to the Toronto Maple Leafs also yielded the Ducks another pick in the first round at 30.
Much has been written here and elsewhere on the aging of the Ducks’ stars including Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry, both whom are on the high side of 30.
So the Ducks need to get young and replace their offense with solid, talented youth.
At 24, the Ducks selected Pascal Laberge to strengthen their hand on the forward lines.
In the 30th position, the Ducks have the opportunity to continue the youth movement and gain some offensive output to compete in the Pacific Division.
With the second pick in the first round, Pro Hockey News sees Anaheim selecting Alex Debrincat from the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League.
This past season Debrincat scored 51 goals and 101 points in 60 games. The previous season Debrincat managed 104 points on the same number of goals in 68 games.
Debrincat weighs in at 165 pounds on a 5’7” frame but he plays bigger down low in the slot.
His size may be an issue in the NHL where he would up against larger and taller defensemen in the NL. But the likes Matts Zuccarello of the New York Rangers may be the best example of why Debrincat would be able to perform well.
His size may be a detraction but his presence and knowledge are exceptional according to scouting services and he scores because he is in the right spot on the ice at the right time.
“With the 30th selection in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, the Anaheim Ducks are proud to select Alex Debrincat of the Erie Otters.”
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