6 Players the Anaheim Ducks Should Consider Trading

Josh Manson

Josh Manson has received quite a bit of criticism from fans regarding his performance since returning from his knee injury, and rightfully so. However, to claim that he is a bad defenseman is not only incorrect and a tad ignorant, but it is also very harsh. In fact, at the end of the day, he is a great defenseman. The problem is, his style of defense does not fit well with the system Dallas Eakins is currently implementing.

There is a very good reason why a defenseman like Cam Fowler is succeeding this season whereas Josh Manson is not. It is one of those “it’s not you, it’s me” situations. The recently promoted alternate captain could be used as trade bait, however, if Bob Murray is serious about heading in the direction of a rebuild. Manson has a lot to offer, and he could be a great piece for a team looking to make a run in the playoffs this season.

Manson currently has two seasons left on his current contract after the 2019-20 season ends. His current AAV is $4.1M and he has a Modified No-Trade Clause attached to his contract. This allows Manson to submit a 12 team no-trade list before any trade is carried out. Nevertheless, this still gives Bob Murray plenty of teams to barter with and potentially find a good fit for the 28-year-old defenseman.

While there are some mistakes Manson has made this season that cannot be chalked up to Dallas Eakins’ system, Josh Manson is still a very good defenseman. His on ice-game may reflect more of a physical flare, but it is also within the veteran defenseman’s nature to play with humility. His positive attitude has instilled trust in his teammates, even earning him the role as one of the Ducks alternate captains this season.

Despite starting his hockey journey as a forward, Manson makes a name for himself as a defensively-minded defenseman. Despite his size, he is a smooth skater. He also isn’t afraid to use his size to shut down his opponents. While the entire team has struggled to connect passes at one point or another this season, for the most part, Manson is usually a solid passer. That, paired with his good instincts and excellent vision on the ice, would make him an excellent candidate for several playoff-ready teams.

However, what sets JM42 apart from many other players is his attitude. Not only is he positive, as previously mentioned, but he is the kind of player who never stops pushing himself to be better. He doesn’t let his mistakes define him, nor does he allow hot streaks to get to his head. His work ethic is incredible and quite honestly, admirable.

While parting with Josh Manson would be yet another difficult goodbye, trading him could offer the Anaheim Ducks a decent return. His style no longer fits the team’s plans going forward. Plus, at 28-years-old, there is a big possibility he won’t be around when the Ducks are, once again, ready for a deep playoff run. It would be better for Bob Murray to sell high while he can and allow Manson the possibility of winning a Cup elsewhere before he hangs up his skates.