Are the Anaheim Ducks Poised to Make a Big Splash in Free Agency?

News broke late last week that was quite unsettling for the Anaheim Ducks and their fans. There is the very realistic chance we have seen the last of Ryan Kesler and Patrick Eaves in the NHL. And while it is more important for them to have a normal full life after hockey do the Ducks now need to replace them with big free agent signings?

The Anaheim Ducks are at a crossroads but first and foremost we need to recognize this is about the health and well being of two great people. As much as I love seeing Ryan Kesler and Patrick Eaves playing the game they love, for the team I love, there are more important things that rise above the level of hockey. There is a life after hockey, both of these guys have families they must care for and be there for. Both of these guys have long lives still ahead of them. And as hard as I’m sure it will be for them to give up the game they love their health must come first.

I am happy the Ducks management is realizing that and taking the steps to put their well being above the game of hockey. And I think I speak for all of us here at Pucks of a Feather and Ducks fans in general in wishing them nothing but the best going forward. If they both truly have played their last game for the Ducks, the team now has two big spots to fill and increased cap space to do so. While the young kids should stick around next season, bringing in one or two top-6, top-9 players to help the transition should be what the Ducks look to do. So here are three players the Ducks could target this summer to be the bridge between Ryan Getzlaf–Corey Perry and the plethora of kids.