{"id":464591,"date":"2025-03-20T14:07:07","date_gmt":"2025-03-20T18:07:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/hockey\/?p=464591"},"modified":"2025-03-20T14:07:07","modified_gmt":"2025-03-20T18:07:07","slug":"ducks-since-the-deadline","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/hockey\/2025\/03\/20\/ducks-since-the-deadline\/","title":{"rendered":"Anaheim Ducks Since the Trade Deadline"},"content":{"rendered":"

The 2024-2025 NHL trade deadline has come and gone, and the Anaheim Ducks have made several strategic moves that signal a clear direction for the franchise’s future. Under General Manager Pat Verbeek<\/a>, the Anaheim Ducks trade deadline have focused on acquiring young talent and draft capital, aiming to build a competitive team in the coming years. While the Ducks remain outside the playoff picture this season, their deadline transactions indicate a strong commitment to shaping the roster for long-term success.<\/span><\/p>\n

Key Trades Leading Up to the Deadline<\/b><\/h3>\n

1. Jacob Trouba<\/a> Acquisition (December 6, 2024)<\/b><\/h4>\n

The Ducks acquired defenceman<\/a> Jacob Trouba from the New York Rangers<\/a> in exchange for Urho Vaakanainen<\/a> and a conditional fourth-round pick in 2025. Trouba, a seasoned blueliner, brings leadership and experience to Anaheim’s young defensive corps. His physical presence and shot-blocking ability make him a valuable asset, especially in a mentorship role for emerging stars like Olen Zellweger<\/a> and Pavel Mintyukov<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Cam Fowler<\/a> Trade (December 14, 2024)<\/b><\/h4>\n

In a move that surprised many, the Ducks traded longtime defenceman<\/a> Cam Fowler to the St. Louis Blues<\/a>. In return, Anaheim received prospect J\u00e9r\u00e9mie Biakabutuka and a second-round pick in 2027. This trade underscored the organization’s commitment to infusing new talent into the lineup. Fowler had been a pillar of the Ducks’ blue line for over a decade, but his departure marks a shift towards developing a younger, faster defensive group.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Ville Husso<\/a> Acquisition (February 24, 2025)<\/b><\/h4>\n

Addressing goaltending depth, the Ducks acquired veteran netminder Ville Husso from the Detroit Red Wings<\/a> for future considerations. Husso’s addition provides stability between the pipes, especially with starter John Gibson<\/a> sidelined due to injury. With Lukas Dostal<\/a> still developing, Husso gives Anaheim a reliable option in goal as they navigate the remainder of the season. This move also suggests that Gibson\u2019s long-term future in Anaheim may be in question.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Brian Dumoulin<\/a> Trade (March 6, 2025)<\/b><\/h4>\n

The Ducks traded defenceman Brian Dumoulin to the New Jersey Devils<\/a> in exchange for a conditional second-round pick in 2025 and prospect Herman Traff. This move aligns with Anaheim’s strategy of accumulating draft assets and developing young talent. Dumoulin was a valuable veteran presence, but moving him allows the Ducks to further invest in their next generation of blueliners.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Oliver Kylington<\/a> Acquisition (March 7, 2025)<\/b><\/h4>\n

In a recent transaction, the Ducks acquired defenceman Oliver Kylington from the New York Islanders<\/a> for future considerations. Kylington\u2019s mobility and puck-moving abilities add a new dimension to Anaheim\u2019s defensive lineup. With the team shifting towards a speed-oriented, transition game, Kylington fits well into Verbeek\u2019s vision.<\/span><\/p>\n

How Have the Ducks Performed Since the Deadline?<\/h3>\n

Since finalizing these trades, the Ducks have continued to struggle in the standings, but there are positive takeaways from their post-deadline performances:<\/p>\n