The Anaheim Ducks have signed goalie prospect Roman Durny to an entry-level contract worth $807,500.
Signed to Entry-Level Contract
Roman Durny (G) | ANA#LetsGoDuckshttps://t.co/y8wM3zEcea— CapFriendly Transactions (@CF_Transactions) April 1, 2020
Roman Durny Signs Entry-Level Contract
A former fifth-round draft selection in 2018, Durny is entering his first season as a professional. Since he was drafted, he has played for the Des Moines Buccaneers of the USHL and the Norfolk Admirals of the ECHL. In 50 games for Des Moines last season, he averaged a 2.38 goals-against average and a .920 save percentage. His play with Norfolk has been subpar so far this season with a 4.02 goals-against average and a .881 save percentage.
Assessing the Ducks Goaltending Situation
Although poor team play has resulted in a lacklustre record, goalie is a strength of the Ducks. John Gibson is a true superstar and is highly overlooked. He has put up solid numbers throughout his career. In 287 career NHL games, he has a .918 save percentage and a 2.53 goals-against average to go along with 19 shutouts.
Ryan Miller has also served as a more than capable backup. While his contract is expiring, there are still several minor league goaltenders who will likely get the call up before Durny. As previously mentioned, Anaheim does not need a starting goaltender. If anything, they will be looking for a new backup. Durny will find himself filling the void left behind if Miller leaves.
Durny’s Role
Durny will not have a large role with Anaheim right now or for the next few seasons. His numbers in the ECHL and USHL are indicative of a player who is not ready to contribute now. He needs to spend more time in the ECHL or be sent to the AHL. If he can spend time developing his game there, he could wind up playing a backup role to John Gibson. For now, he will have to contend with Anthony Stolarz for playing time with the San Diego Gulls.
