Anaheim Ducks Silent at Trade Deadline, Eye Future Improvements

ANAHEIM, Calif. — The NHL trade deadline passed quietly for the Anaheim Ducks, as the team opted for a measured approach rather than major moves. General Manager Pat Verbeek confirmed on March 12 the Ducks made only one significant trade, sending veteran defenseman Brian Dumoulin to New Jersey in exchange for forward prospect Herman Traff and a conditional second-round pick in 2025.

The lack of activity may disappoint some fans hoping for a roster shakeup aimed at securing a playoff push this season. The Ducks currently sit far back from the wild-card spot, facing a daunting challenge to climb out of the standings. “We’re in a position where we need to focus on our development,” Verbeek remarked. “Our goal going forward is to continue building on the foundation we’ve laid.”

By trading Dumoulin, who was acquired less than a year ago, the Ducks aim to accelerate the development of their younger players, such as Pavel Mintyukov and Olen Zellweger. “Brian was a fantastic mentor for our young guys,” said Verbeek. “His leadership was invaluable, especially for those players who are still finding their way.”

The Ducks are in a rebuilding phase, having accumulated several high draft picks in recent years, including top selections like Mason McTavish and Leo Carlsson. Despite their struggles, Verbeek is optimistic about the future. “We have a core of young talent that is starting to gel,” he said. “We need to give them the opportunity to grow.”

Anaheim has now matched its win total from the previous season with 27 victories and still has 18 games left to play. The focus remains on squeezing every bit of experience out of these critical matches. “Every game is a chance for these guys to learn,” Verbeek noted. “It’s important they understand the pressure involved in playing against teams that are in the playoff race.”

The Ducks have been slowly adding pieces to their roster, including the recent acquisition of defenseman Oliver Kylington, who they believe will contribute to their depth on defense. “He brings speed and skill to the ice, which we need,” said Ducks head coach Greg Cronin.

As the summer approaches, the Ducks expect to be active in the free-agent market. With over $39 million projected in salary cap space for the 2025-26 season, they could pursue impact players to bolster the roster. There have been whispers about a possible pursuit of star forward Mitch Marner, pending his availability.

Veteran players like Jacob Trouba, who joined the Ducks in December, have noticed the team’s gradual progression. “We’re starting to earn the respect of our peers,” Trouba stated. “Our goal is to change the narrative from rebuilding to competing. We’re in games every night, and that’s a positive.”

Despite missing the playoffs this year, the Ducks are cautiously optimistic about their trajectory. “It’s about putting in the work now and continuing to improve each season,” Verbeek said. “I believe in this group. Our time will come.”

As the Ducks approach the final stretch of the season, players and management alike are focused on growth rather than immediate results. With a foundation of young talent and promising prospects, the team’s silence at the trade deadline may just be a sign of patience paying off in the long run.