Anaheim Ducks Trade Andrew Cogliano: Farewell Iron Man

In a shocking turn of events, the Anaheim Ducks confirmed this morning that they had traded veteran left wing, Andrew Cogliano to the Dallas Stars.

After the Anaheim Ducks lost their eleventh consecutive game, Bob Murray has finally put his foot down and made a shocking move. Following his statement that insinuated change was coming to Anaheim, the organization dropped the bomb that they had traded Andrew Cogliano.

Cogliano has been a fan favorite since he was acquired in a trade with the Edmonton Oilers in 2011. Over the past eight seasons, he has established himself as a critical veteran presence in the Anaheim Ducks locker room as well as on the ice.

However, this season, he’s seen a significant decrease in production. While Cogliano has been put in a position that promotes his defensive qualities and an excessive amount of points is never something to be expected from the 31-year-old forward, he has had issues following through this season.

I don’t think that Bob Murray moved him because he has necessarily done anything wrong. I think Cogliano was the easiest player to move while also sending a message to the rest of the team.

The third line has been an absolute mess this season. Ryan Kesler has been overworked and as the age old saying goes, “the proof is in the pudding.” Just watch him on the ice, he needs a break. Reuniting the shutdown line has not been fair to both Andrew Cogliano or Jakob Silfverberg.

Jakob Silfverberg has seemed like the most logical trade all season. However, I have a feeling that Bob Murray wants to see a little more from the 28-year-old Swede before he sends him packing as well. Either that or he feels he could get a decent return and he’s waiting for the right GM to take the bait.

Andrew Cogliano is the Defenition of Dedication

In any sport, there is a level of dedication. However, Andrew Cogliano is one of the most dedicated players I’ve ever had the pleasure to watch on the ice. Like I mentioned previously, he isn’t in the business of producing points in excess, but he has never really had to.

Cogliano is a fearless entity when he has his skates on. His raw talent and passion for the game are always evident. He is swift, bold, and he’s always had a knack for putting his nose to the grindstone.

AC7 has made a name for himself as one of the most durable players in the NHL. Hence, the nickname “Iron Man.” Cogliano had one of the longest streak of any active player in the NHL up until his two-game suspension last season.

Nevertheless, many fans still consider the streak alive and well. I have to admit, even though his streak was broken, his suspension for hitting Adrian Kempe was questionable. However, I’m not the expert so I’ll leave those calls up to the NHL Department of Player Safety.

Over the course of eight seasons, however, he has played a total of 584 games for the Anaheim Ducks, only ever missing those two games last season. His 233 points during his tenure as a Duck has lent a hand in leading the team to six consecutive playoff appearances.

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He co-leads the franchise in shorthanded goals, with 16, alongside Paul Kariya. This is yet another piece of evidence that points directly to his dedication. Whenever the Ducks put themselves in a situation where they have the disadvantage, Cogliano pushed himself harder than anyone to protect his team.

Andrew Cogliano Has one of the Biggest Hearts

One thing that makes Andrew Cogliano such a fan favorite is his big heart. As previously mentioned, he is as dedicated as they come. However, when you think of Cogliano, you can’t help but be reminded of his love for dogs.

The Anaheim Ducks are known for their involvement in their community and Andrew Cogliano is always one of the players on the front lines. However, there is a very special place in his philanthropic heart for mans best friend; further proof of his selflessness.

Many of us also have wonderful memories with him. I have seen many photos circling social media, since the news of his trade broke, recalling sweet moments with Cogliano. He always seems to take time out of his busy schedule to let the fans know how much he appreciates them.

While it is disappointing that he has been traded, I can’t help but be excited for him. He has the opportunity to go somewhere that can offer him the opportunities to thrive that he didn’t have with the Anaheim Ducks.

Unfortunately, hockey is a business and trades are just a part of the game. That fact doesn’t lessen the blow and we will miss him tremendously. As I mentioned, he has been the definition of dedication for the Ducks over the past eight seasons.

As we wish him farewell, let’s remind ourselves of all the moments that made us appreciate not only the wonderful hockey player but the all-around wonderful person that Andrew Cogliano is.

On behalf of all of the staff here at Pucks of a Feather, we wish Andrew Cogliano good luck on his new venture with the Dallas Stars. Once a Duck, always a Duck. Thank you for every moment of dedication and hard work you have given to the Anaheim Ducks over the past eight seasons! We will miss you.

Bob Murray has made his message clear. Stay tuned Ducks Nation, I have a feeling he’s only just getting started.