3 Bold Predictions for the Anaheim Ducks' 2023-24 Season

Welcome to our new predictions series where we'll make three bold predictions for each NHL team next season. From individual point totals, big trades from GM's or Stanley Cup Playoff success, we'll cover it all as we dive into all 32 teams.

For our first stop let's head to sunny California and jump in the water with the Anaheim Ducks. A team still looking to rebuild next season, GM Pat Verbeek made some interesting signings this summer which had many questioning their sense of direction. Regardless of the vision, here's three bold Ducks predictions for next season:

John Gibson Finally Gets Traded

Hockey insider Frank Seravalli and Gibson's agent have gone back and forth this summer on what's going on and it's become quite messy. Seravalli had it on good source that Gibson stated he would never play another game for the Ducks, meanwhile the goalie's agent released a statement and stated that couldn't be further from the truth.

The truth is, Gibson needs a change of scenery and he's become a bit stale playing meaningless games in Anaheim. The team is still a couple of years away and Verbeek should and will be looking at ways to get Gibson into a new home. The goalie movement was rabid this summer and now that things have slowed down, wait until an injury occurs early on next season and look for Gibson's name to be linked to the new team. Prediction - Gibson gets moved to the Philadelphia Flyers or LA Kings.

Leo Carlsson Held to Less Than 35 Points

The Adam Fantilli/Carlsson debate was a hot topic leading up to the draft and the Ducks ended up going in a surprising route selecting the Swedish center. This is going to be something they regret. While Carlsson has been playing against men for a few seasons, the numbers haven't been great and his two-way game is what's really being noticed. That's all good and fine, but the Ducks need point production from other places than Trevor Zegras and Troy Terry. Unfortunately, Carlsson could struggle out of the gate and it's going to take him some time to get his feet under him in the NHL. Prediction - Carlsson held to 33 points next season.

Radko Gudas' Contract Becomes Worst Value on the Team

One of the more surprising contracts this summer was when the Ducks decided to give rugged defenseman Radko Gudas a three-year deal worth $4 million per season. Gudas does what he does well, but with the style of play, at 33 years old, he's starting to slow down. By the time the end of this season rolls around, Verbeek is going to be questioned on his decision to give Gudas a three-year deal for so much money. Prediction - Gudas struggles this season and becomes the worst contract on the Ducks books.