Earlier today, Pat Verbeek went on The Beeker, a podcast recorded through Ducks Stream, and he had quite a bit to say about the state of the Ducks, their prospects, and much more! Here’s a breakdown of what was said.
The rebuild is officially over.
Verbeek was asked if the Ducks would continue to be sellers throughout next season, and that was quickly turned down. He mentioned that he doesn’t see them having anyone that they would sell and that he thinks it’s time for the Ducks to take that next step. He then went on to mention the importance of the younger players getting stronger and maturing into full-time NHL players.
Zellweger to stay with the Ducks.
Verbeek went on to talk about the recent recall of Olen Zellweger, and mentioned that he should play the remainder of the season up in the NHL. Zellweger was dominant in the AHL, he was awarded AHL All-Star, and then even in the NHL, he continued to thrive. In seven games in the NHL, he has two points and is a +3; in San Diego, he had 37 points in 44 games.
NCAA Prospect Updates
Pat Verbeek was asked about the prospects the team has in the NCAA and if the Ducks plan on signing them at the end of their seasons. He said that he does plan on signing both Sam Colangelo and Cutter Gauthier, but both players are teams who could make a run in the playoffs so that might still be awhile. As for defensive prospect Ian Moore, he plans on playing one more season in the NCAA, so next season, he should be signed.
Lastly, the Ducks offseason plans
According the General Manager, Pat Verbeek, the Ducks don’t plan on getting rid of any veterans at the draft or during the offseason, unless a offer is presented that simply can’t be passed up. As far as the Ducks biggest needs, Verbeek made it known that he really wants to target the bottom six during this upcoming offseason. The Ducks have struggled mightily getting points from the bottom two forwards lines and in order to get into the playoffs that has to change.
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