The Anaheim Ducks are suddenly the most exciting show on ice, and nobody saw it coming.
After seven long years of missing the playoffs, the Ducks are lighting up the scoreboard and turning heads across the NHL. Their latest offensive explosion – a wild 7-5 win over the Dallas Stars on Thursday – pushed their record to an impressive 9-3-1.
But it’s not just that they’re winning. It’s how they’re doing it.
The Ducks have become the NHL’s highest-scoring team, averaging a whopping 4.15 goals per game. They’ve already put up seven or more goals four times this season.
At the heart of this transformation is Leo Carlsson, the No. 2 pick from the 2023 draft. The young star has been absolutely on fire, racking up 20 points in just 13 games. That puts him on pace for 126 points this season – though maintaining that crazy scoring rate might be asking a lot.
Cutter Gauthier is making just as many waves. He scored again Thursday night, pulling even with Penguins legend Sidney Crosby for the NHL lead with 11 goals.
Even the veterans are getting in on the fun. Chris Kreider, who came over from the Rangers looking to bounce back from a tough year, has already netted nine goals of his own.
But here’s the thing about the Ducks – they’re just as likely to give up goals as score them. Their defense has been, well, let’s say adventurous. It’s made every game feel like a rollercoaster ride.
Want to see end-to-end action and plenty of goals? The Ducks have become must-watch hockey. They’ve already put up five or more goals six different times this season.
For a team that’s been easy to ignore these past few years, the Ducks are making sure nobody can look away now. Their games are pure entertainment – just don’t expect many 2-1 finals.
This young core is finally giving Ducks fans something they’ve been desperate for: hope. And for hockey fans everywhere else? They’re providing some of the most exciting hockey you’ll find anywhere in the NHL.
