Anaheim Ducks: The Good, The Bad and Things Fans Want to Forget – Part 1

COLUMBUS, OH - DECEMBER 01: Anaheim Ducks right wing Ondrej Kase (25) looks on before a game between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Anaheim Ducks on December 01, 2017, at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH.(Photo by Adam Lacy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OH - DECEMBER 01: Anaheim Ducks right wing Ondrej Kase (25) looks on before a game between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Anaheim Ducks on December 01, 2017, at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH.(Photo by Adam Lacy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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ANAHEIM, CA – DECEMBER 1: General Manager Bob Murray of the Anaheim Ducks looks on during a press conference. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images)

Standing pat at the trade deadline

It’s a controversial opinion, but I believe Bob Murray made the right move by standing pat at the deadline. He made the curious move of exchanging Chris Wagner for Jason Chimera (more on that in the bad section), but no fundamental changes occurred.

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Fans expected the move to be a precursor for his “big” acquisition; the player who would make Anaheim favorites for the cup. Much to their chagrin, he was done. Although the Ducks were fighting their way up the standings, Murray understood the team couldn’t legitimately compete of the cup.

In the excitement of the trade deadline, fans were upset at not being a “buyer.” Murray decided it was better to make changes ahead of the 2018-19 season than in March.

Many in Ducks Nation were upset that the Sharks acquired power forward Evander Kane. As good as Kane would have looked in a Ducks sweater, Anaheim would have lost the series to the Sharks anyway.

Kane recently signed for $7 Million over 7 years. It is a bit much to stomach for a 40 point player. At that price, the Ducks likely only viewed him as a rental. Not only would the team have an embarrassing playoff exit on our resume, they’d also be out a second rounder.

Editors note: We are proud to welcome Kenny Marcial to Pucks of a Feather. His opinions about the Anaheim Ducks should give fans lots to talk about.