NHL Pacific Division 2015-16 Offseason Rankings
Anaheim Ducks mascot performs before the game. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
NHL Pacific Division #1 Anaheim Ducks
"“The Anaheim Ducks got Carl Hagelin and unleashed a FANTASTIC third jersey? That’s a good offseason. The rich got richer.” – Adam Savard, Staff Writer"
Everyone polled is confident that the Anaheim Ducks will place 1st in the NHL Pacific Division. Many of us feel that they are a top contender for the Stanley Cup this season as well. The other reason they will be mighty this season is that they will return to their roots with their third jersey.
"“I really doubt there is much debate out there about this one. Somehow the Ducks managed to get meaner and they brought in Bieksa as a quality vet to mentor their young defense. Definitely a contender for the cup.” – Jason Feddema, Staff Writer"
The Ducks are even meaner and tougher to play against with the additions of the well-known enforcer Brian McGrattan, wildcard Chris Stewart and defenseman Kevin Bieksa. Bieksa will also provide veteran mentorship to a young and talented defensive core including Hampus Lindholm (age 21), Sami Vatanen (age 24), Cam Fowler (age 23) and Simon Despres (24).
"“Enter the season as Cup favorites by many, and they should be. The additions of Carl Hagelin, Chris Stewart, Kevin Bieksa and Shawn Horcoff add tremendous depth. Great youth at the goaltender position for years to come.” – Martin Strachan, Staff Writer"
These were not the only notable changes, as they added Carl Hagelin who is a speedy two-way winger who can slot into any line. When you add these new additions alongside their veteran core made up of Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Ryan Kesler, there really isn’t anything missing in their depth. Further, they have two solid goaltenders in Frederik Andersen and John Gibson. Expect them to make another run for the cup, and the cap strapped Blackhawks are unlikely to get in the way this time.
| Writer | Ranking |
| Diana Driscoll | 1 |
| J.A. Dominicis | 1 |
| Jason Feddema | 1 |
| Patrick Helper | 1 |
| Mike Hrankiwskyj | 1 |
| Chris Prod | 1 |
| Adam Savard | 1 |
| Martin Strachan | 1 |
| Consensus | 1 |
Next: Anaheim Ducks Going Back to 'Mighty' Roots
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