Ryan Getzlaf won’t be able to play hockey forever. With rumors that his successor could be traded, which of the Anaheim Ducks will wear the “C” next?
At the age of 33, Ryan Getzlaf has had a successful run as the Anaheim Ducks captain. He has held this post longer than any other captain in the Anaheim Ducks 25 year history. While he may still have a few good years left before he should even consider hanging up his skates, the franchise should already be considering their next candidate.
For years, it has been assumed that the calm, cool, and collected, Cam Fowler, would become Ryan Getzlaf’s successor. For his entire NHL career, Fowler has played under the leadership of Getzlaf. The qualities the 27-year-old defenseman possesses, make him the perfect candidate. Plus, having been given the opportunity to wear the “A” on and off over the past few seasons has been a sure sign that the Anaheim Ducks have been grooming him for this position.
Nevertheless, rumors have abounded this season that Cam Fowler is high on Bob Murray‘s trade list. His production has taken a nose dive this season, and although he was benched for a few months after an awful facial injury, he hasn’t looked the same on the ice as in years past. With him being in the last years of his prime, producing results like this doesn’t reflect well, especially when he’s considered to be a leader.
Although it would be disheartening to see Fowler go after 9 seasons with the Anaheim Ducks, the good news is, it wouldn’t be hard for Bob Murray to find a team willing to trade for him. Due to his incredible work ethic, many GM’s see him as a desirable acquisition. Plus, although he hasn’t been playing well in Anaheim, under the right conditions he could still be an incredible defenseman.
If these rumors do come to fruition, and Fowler is traded, the Anaheim Ducks are going to need to start preparing someone else for the job. In order to kindly aid them in their search for Ryan Getzlaf’s predecessor, we have discussed potential options in this week’s round table.