Anaheim Ducks Need To Embrace The Lead Role At Trade Deadline

Feb 7, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Matt Duchene (9) during the first period against the Montreal Canadiens at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 7, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Matt Duchene (9) during the first period against the Montreal Canadiens at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
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NHL: Dallas Stars at Nashville Predators
NHL: Dallas Stars at Nashville Predators

Patrick Eaves (DAL):

There is a lot to like about the 32-year-old right winger.

To start, he’s on the top line with Jamie Benn and Cody Eakin while leading the Stars in goals (21) and third in points.

And for a team like the Anaheim Ducks that are over the cap, his $1 million cap hit is a welcome sign.

If he can produce like this with Jamie Benn, imagine what damage he could do with Ryan Getzlaf.

Eaves has been subject to injuries that sidelined him for a large chunk of past seasons, which explains why he’s cheap and have short-term deals.

But he’s maintained himself well this season, missing just one game. Which is a sign to me that he’s motivated to have a longer NHL career.

Especially when he becomes a UFA after this season.

Anaheim has nothing to lose. If the experiment works, there is no problem resigning him. If not, you can let him go without losing any sleep.

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