Ryan Strome has enjoyed his time with the Anaheim Ducks, but the consistent losing over the past three seasons has taken its toll. After a deep playoff run with the New York Rangers in 2022, Strome was aware that joining Anaheim meant stepping into a rebuilding phase.
However, the prolonged absence of success has been challenging. Speaking at a charity golf event, he expressed hope that recent improvements and organizational changes are signs that the Ducks are finally turning a corner and are poised for progress.
Entering the fourth year of his five-year deal, Strome has seen some positive developments. After finishing with just 58 and 59 points in his first two seasons, the Ducks improved to 80 points last season, a 21-point jump.
Anaheim hasn’t reached the playoffs since the 2017-18 season, but recent moves by general manager Pat Verbeek suggest a new sense of urgency and ambition. Strome sees this as a promising shift in direction, noting that the culture and mindset are changing for the better.
Quenneville’s Arrival and Key Additions Signal Ducks’ Shift Toward Competitive Future
A major offseason move was the hiring of legendary coach Joel Quenneville, a three-time Stanley Cup champion, to replace Greg Cronin. Strome is optimistic about Quenneville’s impact, comparing the Ducks’ current situation to where the Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers were when Quenneville took over.
The young core in Anaheim reminds Strome of those previous rosters that saw major growth under Quenneville. He emphasized the importance of learning from such an accomplished coach, calling the opportunity rare and invaluable.
Ryan Strome (NHL)Anaheim also strengthened its roster by acquiring forward Chris Kreider and signing Mikael Granlund. Kreider, a former teammate of Strome’s in New York, brings leadership, professionalism, and a winning mentality to the Ducks.
Strome believes Kreider’s presence will have a powerful impact on the locker room and demonstrates the organization’s serious commitment to becoming a competitive team. These moves, according to Strome, send a clear message to both fans and players that Anaheim is determined to move beyond its rebuilding phase.
Veteran Support and Youthful Promise Form Ducks’ Blueprint for Playoff Contention
Granlund, who tallied 66 points last season, is another valuable addition aimed at supporting the Ducks’ younger talent. Strome sees the move as further proof of the team’s determination to transition from development to contention.
He praised Granlund’s consistent success and leadership qualities, saying veterans like him are crucial in mentoring the young core, particularly players like Leo Carlsson, who are still adjusting to the demands of the NHL.
At the heart of Anaheim’s future is a promising young core that includes Mason McTavish, Troy Terry, Carlsson, and Cutter Gauthier, along with a crop of talented young defensemen. Strome voiced confidence that McTavish, a restricted free agent, will sign a new deal soon, calling him a vital piece of the puzzle.
With seasoned players like Alex Killorn, Frank Vatrano, Jacob Trouba, and Radko Gudas also in the mix, Strome believes the Ducks now have the right blend of youth and experience to push for a playoff spot. He concluded by emphasizing that it’s now on the players to take responsibility and deliver on the ice.
