2018-19 Anaheim Ducks: Projecting the impact of Sam Steel
By Kennyth M
Ready to compete if called upon
Steel’s immediate road to the NHL is complicated. For the Ducks, the biggest question mark heading into the season is the status of Ryan Kesler. If he’s healthy, the Ducks depth at center is elite.
Few teams can compete with the likes of Kesler, Getzlaf and Adam Henrique manning the pivot positions. In addition, the Ducks will be calling upon Henrique to shoulder tougher defensive assignments in order to limit the physical impact on Kesler’s body.
Having Kesler healthy entering the season is a dream for Anaheim, but the reality is he will likely miss time. Due to the Ducks limited cap space, they were unable to acquire a center in Free Agency capable of filling RK17’s skates. Enter Sam Steel.
Should Kesler be a “no go,” Steel will be given every opportunity to take over a role in the Ducks top nine. His cap hit of $863K is exactly what Anaheim need to fill out the roster and provide flexibility upon Kesler’s return.
Spreading his wings with the Gulls
There is a very real chance Steel will spend time in San Diego this season. He’s only 20 years old and entering into his first professional campaign. Most players, including Captain Ryan Getzlaf, spend extended time in the AHL. Developing players must have extended ice time to ensure they reach their potential.
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That being said, if Steel doesn’t start the season in Anaheim, he will be among their first call-ups. His skill-set is too tantalizing to not get a shot. Not only that, but his arrival is a spectacle that will bring a full house to the Honda Center. Either way, the Man of Steel’s time in Anaheim will be upon us shortly.