Five Anaheim Ducks prospects who can surprise and contribute in 2018-19
By Kennyth M
The Anaheim Ducks have a stocked developmental pipeline. Every year a prospect surprises everyone at training camp. Who could that surprise player be this year?
Every season there are a couple prospects who surprise everyone to contribute on the Anaheim Ducks NHL Roster. Searching through Ducks history, there have been players like Dan Sexton, Brandon McMillan, Chris Wagner and Ondrej Kase who broke through to contribute unexpectedly. Last year, Marcus Pettersson got a call-up and refused to be sent back down. This season, there are several prospects who can fit the bill.
Since this article is looking at prospects who can surprise by making the Anaheim Ducks roster, Sam Steel and Troy Terry won’t be included. Both guys are blue-chip caliber prospects and are expected to see some time with the big club this season.
Honorable Mentions
Jacob Larsson – The former first-round pick has his work cut out for him should he make the Ducks roster. He has the talent, but the blueline is crowded. I can see the Ducks moving him as part of a package for a scoring winger.
Max Jones – Another first-round pick making the jump to the professional level. Physically, Jones can hang in the NHL ranks, but he has the potential to become more than a grinder. Spending time in the AHL is needed to access his full abilities.
Kalle Kossila – He’s an honorable mention due to the expectation he will be playing for the Ducks in some capacity. Anaheim’s center depth is thin and he’s been a standout for the Gulls. He’s not someone that needs to develop, so he could potentially stay in Anaheim even if he’s not a full-time roster player.