Anaheim Ducks: Creating a Lineup of Only Ex-Players

Defense

Shea Theodore (2.56) – Sami Vatanen (.63)

Easily the most effective, exciting (yet depressing) player on this squad is Shea Theodore. Mistakenly let go as part of a deal relating to Vegas’ expansion draft, Theodore has gone on to become a bona fide star. He broke out in a major way in 2020’s playoffs, finishing as the leading scorer for a strong Golden Knights team. Sami Vatanen is what he is; a powerplay specialist.

Marcus Pettersson (.79) – Brandon Montour (.09)

Montour has turned in some down years in terms of production, but nothing that can’t be attributed to playing on the Buffalo Sabres. Anaheim Ducks fans know his skillset, and given a better group of skaters playing with him, he could still provide value. On the other hand, Pettersson has turned out to be a strong addition for a Pittsburgh team depleted of the depth it once boasted.

Luke Schenn (-0.69) – Erik Gudbranson (-0.78)

This is where things get dicey. Gudbranson and Schenn could get away with their utter lack of NHL-level scoring aptitude if they portrayed effective defending. However, Gudbranson was practically just given away for this very lack of upside.

Schenn was dragged along during Tampa Bay’s season in which he was only ever utilized as a 7th defenseman. Both of them played sparing minutes. But still, a general lack of options forces the ex-Ducks squad to turn their way. To put it lightly, the top four would be playing some heavy minutes.