NHL EDGE Stats Fuel Ducks’ Breakout Season
The Anaheim Ducks are making headlines this season, showcasing a significant turnaround in their performance. Thanks to advanced NHL EDGE stats, we can delve into the metrics fueling their impressive journey.
Ducks’ Dominance in the Pacific Division
As of now, the Ducks hold the top position in the Pacific Division standings. With a record of 9-3-1 in their first 13 games, they boast a points percentage of .731, second only to the Colorado Avalanche at .750.
Offensive Surge
This season, Anaheim leads the NHL in goals per game, averaging 4.15. This marks a remarkable increase from the previous season, where they finished 30th in the league with just 2.65 goals per game.
- Leaders in Young Talent: The Ducks’ roster includes promising young players such as:
- Leo Carlsson (No. 2 pick in 2023 NHL Draft)
- Cutter Gauthier (No. 5 pick in 2022 NHL Draft)
- Beckett Sennecke (No. 3 pick in 2024 NHL Draft)
- Mason McTavish (No. 3 pick in 2021 NHL Draft)
- These players have contributed a combined total of 65 points, which includes 27 goals and 38 assists.
Key Additions Boost Offense
The recent acquisition of Chris Kreider has also been pivotal for the Ducks’ offense. Since joining from the New York Rangers, Kreider has scored nine goals in nine games, leading the team and ranking first among offseason acquisitions.
Franchise Records Set
The Ducks have already made history by achieving four seven-goal games in just 13 matches. This accomplishment ties them with the Pittsburgh Penguins, who also achieved this feat in the 2019-20 season.
High-Danger Goals as a Game Changer
One of the most notable metrics contributing to the Ducks’ success is their ability to score high-danger goals. They have netted 28 such goals this season, ranking second in the NHL, just behind the Toronto Maple Leafs.
- Top Performers in High-Danger Goals:
- Chris Kreider: 7 goals (tied for League lead)
- Troy Terry: 4 goals
- Beckett Sennecke: 4 goals
Moreover, the Ducks lead the NHL with five players averaging at least one point per game:
- Leo Carlsson: 1.54
- Cutter Gauthier: 1.38
- Troy Terry: 1.31
- Chris Kreider: 1.11
- Mikael Granlund: 1.00 (currently injured)
In an impressive feat, Leo Carlsson has become the fastest Anaheim player to achieve 20 points in a season, matching Teemu Selanne’s record from the 1995-96 season in just 13 games.
The Ducks are not only revitalizing their franchise but also positioning themselves as serious contenders in the NHL this season. With a blend of youth and experienced leadership, the team aims to break their six-season playoff drought and continue their formidable start.
