Anaheim Ducks can find good value with 23rd overall draft pick

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ANAHEIM, CA – APRIL 1: Ryan Kesler #17 of the Anaheim Ducks celebrates his third-period goal during the game against the Colorado Avalanche. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images) /

#2 Ryan Kesler, Vancouver Canucks – 2003

2003 was a great draft year. The Canucks found a gem in current Anaheim Ducks center Ryan Kesler at number 23. Anaheim could have taken Kesler when they drafted at 19th, but decided on Ryan Getzlaf instead. It worked out well for the Ducks, who have them both now.

Kesler has always been a fantastic two player. He is someone who can put the puck in the net, play strong in his own end, and most notably get under the skin of opposing players and fans alike.

His first 10 years in the NHL were with Vancouver. He had four straight 40+ point seasons including his best two seasons of 75 and 73 points respectively. The latter total in 2010-11 helped Kesler and Vancouver make it to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Prior to the 2014-15 season, Anaheim traded for Kesler. Over his first three seasons with the Anaheim Ducks, he averaged 50 points. Last year he missed significant time while rehabbing from hip surgery.

Kesler has been to two Western Conference Finals with the Ducks and has been a pivotal reason why they were there. Rumor has it his hip injury may be more serious than originally thought. Ducks fans are waiting to hear if RK17 will be back and 100% for a run at the Cup in 2018-19.

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