Anaheim Ducks goaltending coach Sudarshan Maharaj is undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer. The Ducks will hire an assistant goaltending coach to fill the role in Maharaj’s absence. He plans to return to the team as soon as he is able.
“While this has been a very difficult time," wrote Sudarshan Maharaj in his statement, "I have had amazing support from my family and the Ducks organization, especially owners Henry and Susan Samueli. A special thanks also to Jillian Samueli for her amazing support and friendship.
“I plan on fighting this disease vigorously with the help of my tremendous doctors both in Toronto and with the Ducks. The hockey community is an amazingly supportive place, and I look forward to seeing you all soon.”
Henry and Susan Samueli, the owners of the Ducks franchise, wrote their own statement:
“We love Sudsie (Maharaj) so much! An amazing person and friend to so many in hockey. Our organization sends heartfelt support to his wife Yvonne, and daughters Alexandra and Katherine. Sudsie is bound and determined to beat this terrible disease, and we can’t wait until he does.”
Maharaj is well-liked by the players and staff in the Ducks organization. Daniel Winnik, an 11-year NHL veteran, had only kind things to say about him:
Maharaj has been the goaltending coach for the Ducks for six years. He also coached in the New York Islanders organization for eight years as well as Hockey Canada from 2005-2007.
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