Defenceman Radko Gudas has been named the next captain of the Anaheim Ducks. The 12-year veteran receives the honour after just one season in Anaheim. This news emerged on early Thursday afternoon.
We're proud to announce Radko Gudas as the ninth captain in Ducks history!
MORE ➡️ https://t.co/yzbA7D2gwC pic.twitter.com/NjNeDXAdAc
— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) September 19, 2024
Radko Gudas Earns The “C”
The announcement is not a surprise. On his 32 Thoughts podcast, Elliotte Friedman shared his belief that Gudas would receive the honour.
“Gudas, I think, is gonna end up being the captain there [Anaheim] this year.”
This the first time the Ducks have had a captain since 2022. Ryan Getzlaf, who retired after that season, served as captain for 12 seasons.
New Captain Has Made A Fast Impression
The 34-year old cemented himself as a major part of the Ducks’ defense this past season. In 66 games with the club in 2023-24, he had six goals and 18 points. His defensive and physical play helped him establish a presence quickly.
Gudas joined the Ducks in the 2023 off-season. Gudas has jumped around his career, but played a big role in the Florida Panthers winning the President’s Trophy in 2022 and reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 2023.
The Captain’s New Role
The Ducks are a young team. Their lineup has a nice balance of veterans and young players. Giving the captaincy to Gudas makes sense. Gudas can help lead the way as the Ducks begin the transition from a rebuilding team to a contending team. Furthermore, he has experiencing of playing on winning teams. The Ducks could be a dark-horse playoff contender this upcoming season. Gudas can be a key piece in that happening.
In addition to his new responsibilities, Gudas also joins an elite list of former Duck captains. Before Getzlaf, Scott Neidermayer served as as captain. The defenceman became the first (and to date, only) Duck to lift the Stanley Cup. Hockey legends Chris Pronger, Teemu Selanne, and Paul Kariya have also served as captain.
Needless to say, Guadas has big shoes to fill. Or should we say, Gudas has has big skates to fill.
Main photo by: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
