Anaheim Ducks: Is Jakob Silfverberg the Odd Man Out?

The Odd Man Out

Bob Murray’s comments at July’s season ticket holders event provided ample content on a variety of different topics. The one that sticks out, in this context, is his assertion that Jakob Silfverberg will be moved to left-wing to accommodate Ondrej Kase and the return of Patrick Eaves.

Now, this isn’t the first time Silfverberg has played on his off wing. However, this time it is certainly more intriguing. He’s fallen behind the team’s other right wings, Kase, Eaves, and Perry on the depth charts. This change is likely an attempt to keep Silfverberg in the top-six, as there isn’t much depth on the left-side after Rickard Rakell.

Ryan Kesler’s health will also determine where Silfverberg plays. If Kesler is ready to go, Silfverberg could find himself in a familiar spot on the “shutdown line” alongside Andrew Cogliano. Whether his versatility should be considered an asset or a sign that he is the odd-man-out is up for debate.

Youth ready to make the jump

The influx of young forwards from the San Diego Gulls affords the Ducks with plenty of options this season. According to Bob Murray; Sam Steel, Troy Terry, and Kevin Roy are all close to making the team. Whether Silfverberg should worry about losing his spot is contingent on their success in the AHL.

If the younger players are ready, their path to the first team may be blocked as the Ducks currently have a logjam in the top-six. Rakell, Getzlaf, Perry, Eaves, Henrique, Kase, and Silfverberg all hinder their chances of making the jump from San Diego. That also includes Ryan Kesler if he is healthy enough to start the season.

Training camp will be a good indicator of whether they are ready to make team and could be the tipping point on a potential trade for Jakob Silfverberg. In a franchise that has long been a budget team, the significantly cheaper options on the way in could force Bob Murray into making a deal.