Speculation: 2025-26 Ducks Defense (Overview)

[Arthuros]

That crop of available RHD is looking ROUGH.

I don't like any of the FAs, and I don't see any other way to get a good enough RHD other than a very expensive trade.

Also, declaring that playoffs is the goal for next season will jack prices up for sure. I do wonder if that might mean that it opens up the candidate pool, though. Not like we'd swing someone like McAvoy, but who knows.

 

[DavidBL]

Imo, we need another veteran D who is GOOD at defense. I don't think we want a offense guy as that's what the kids mostly do. Its one of the reasons we wanted to move Fowler. Honestly I'm a bit torn on LD vs RD. A LD would balance the styles a bit but would mean moving one of the kids to their offside or off the team all together. If it's only for a few years it would allow some time for Solberg to get NHL ready. Add a RD is generally an easier decision as it doesn't force you to move on from any of the promising kids but is typically more expensive and I'm not sure there are many realistic options.

 

[Hey234]

I don't think anyone could argue that a long-term solution for RHD is a real necessity. The issue is that between Luneau, Moore, Helleson, & Warren, none project to be a #2 with LaCombe. The logic behind filling that need is sound.

The problem is that it's one of the hardest positions to fill in the NHL. The likelihood of upgrading that position this summer seems highly unlikely.

Gudas is the captain and is either playing the whole season or traded at the deadline. I would be shocked if they traded their captain this summer. Verbeek has made public statements about how next season will determine if he'll re-sign Trouba. Seems unlikely he's looking to upgrade him unless something falls into their lap. Helleson could be upgraded but if both Trouba and Gudas are not on the team next season, someone cheap and effective like Helleson seems smart to retain.

To me, either drafting or trading for a young player with the potential to be a #2 with LaCombe seems like the only realistic solutions. Next season is the one where decisions and upgrades on defense seem more realistic.