Anaheim Ducks Depth Chart: Rakell, Karlsson, or Kerdiles?

Rickard Rakell
(6’0”, 199lbs. Drafted 30^th overall, 2011)

Apr 27, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Anaheim Ducks center Rickard Rakell (67) skates against the Dallas Stars during game six of the first round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. The Ducks defeated the Stars 5-4 and win the series 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Rakell seems to be the presumptive favorite to win the last available center slot in Anaheim. The 21-year old Swede spent most of last year with the Norfolk Admirals, where he scored 37 points (14g, 23a) in 46 games. He also spent considerable time in Anaheim, but Rakell only posted four points (0 G,  4A) in 18 regular season games, and two points (1 G, 1 A) in four playoff games.

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Rakell is a hard working two-way forward with some interesting offensive upside. His game is not flashy, but it is effective. In his short time in the NHL, Rakell’s held a 55.5% CF%. He also has established chemistry with his linemates in Norfolk: Emerson Etem and Devante Smith-Pelly, two young forwards who will presumably be making the jump to Anaheim this year.

Given his prior NHL experience, Rakell is a prime candidate to make the jump to the big club this year.