Ducks beat San Jose 5-2 in a lively preseason clash, closing it with an empty-net finish. Anaheim leaned on depth and speed, with Cutter Gauthier and Beckett Sennecke generating chances while Sam Dickinson and Vincent Desharnais stabilized the blueline. San Jose leaned on Yaroslav Askarov’s acrobatic saves and a late goal from Jeff Skinner to stay in the fight. Rookie Michael Misa flashed two-way pace and offense, and Leo Carlsson plus Alexander Wennberg remained active on both ends.

The Anaheim Ducks are embracing a pivotal offseason, focusing on creating a well-rounded team that supports its young talent, particularly Cutter Gauthier. After a breakout season with 20 goals, Gauthier is expected to take on a more prominent role, with predictions suggesting he could score 30 goals this season thanks to increased playing time. With head coach Joel Quenneville at the helm, recognized for elevating player performances, Gauthier’s potential growth could be a game-changer for the Ducks, who are aiming for a playoff spot.

The Ducks' front office has invested significant effort into strengthening the roster, ensuring that Gauthier isn’t alone in this pursuit. With a robust squad of young players, the team is positioned to make a serious playoff push, provided Gauthier and others can capitalize on their opportunities. The synergy between experienced coaching and emerging talent could be the key to the Ducks' success this season.

Matvei Michkov has made a significant impact in his rookie season with the Philadelphia Flyers, earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team alongside fellow stars like Macklin Celebrini and Cutter Gauthier. Despite finishing fourth in Calder Trophy voting, Michkov led all NHL rookies with 26 goals while also tying for the second-most points on the team with 63, showcasing remarkable talent and determination.

His performance included leading all rookies in overtime goals, tying the legendary Sidney Crosby for the most by a teenager in NHL history. General manager Danny Brière praised his preparedness and mindset, indicating that Michkov's intelligence and work ethic set him apart from others. This season has seen him become the first Flyers rookie to score more than 60 points since 1994, and he remains focused on improving for next season.

The Anaheim Ducks recently appointed Joel Quenneville as their new head coach, a move that has sparked diverse reactions across the NHL. Quenneville, reinstated last summer after a suspension related to the 2010 Chicago Blackhawks scandal, brings a wealth of experience to the Ducks. Cutter Gauthier, a promising forward for Anaheim, expressed excitement about working with Quenneville, highlighting the positive feedback from others who have played under him. However, some remain skeptical about Quenneville's return, indicating ongoing concerns regarding his past.