1. Riley Nash – C, 29 years old
Pros – Riley Nash is a defensive minded center, but was able to put up solid offensive numbers when called upon in 2017-18. He had a career-high 15 goals and 26 assists, so he can fill in as a top-six center when injuries hit.
More from Pucks of a Feather
- Who could the Anaheim Ducks consider presenting offer sheets to?
- Is Pierre-Luc Dubois on the cards for the rebuilding Anaheim Ducks?
- Making the case for the Anaheim Ducks to trade with the Edmonton Oilers
- Anaheim Ducks might benefit tremendously by trading John Gibson
- How close are the Anaheim Ducks to becoming contenders again?
Kesler’s injury woes Nash an ideal candidate to replace Kesler as the checking line center and continue the Anaheim Ducks recent penalty kill success. The Consort, Alberta native will only be 29 this season, so he still has some prime years left.
Not only does adding Nash help if Kesler doesn’t play next season, but also if he suites up. Keeping RK17 healthy and in the lineup is paramount, so Anaheim will limit his defensive responsibility.
Playing heavy minutes against the opposition’s best players takes its toll physically, and it’s better for Kesler if Nash assumes that role. As a result, RK17 can focus on putting the biscuit in the basket and the Ducks are a deeper team.
Cons – His offense was lacking prior to last season. Nash has solely been a checking line center. While defense is his calling card, he can disappear from games and needs to make a more consistent impact. His recent scoring surge elevated his asking price. It’s possible a team overpays for his services.
Next: A little good news from Bob Murray
Potential Contract – Three years, $2.75M/yr.