Anaheim Ducks: Top 10 Prospects Entering 2019
10. Brendan Guhle
Acquired: Brandon Montour trade (2019)
Position: Defense
Stats: 50 games, 27 points (AHL), 8 games, 1 point (NHL)
Much like Jacob Larsson, Brendan Guhle is starting to run out of time. He’s rarely gotten NHL playing time, but he hasn’t looked out of place when he has gotten it. Guhle has also posted very solid AHL numbers, averaging over 0.50 points per game in each of his last two seasons.
It’ll be interesting to see who wins the training camp battle between Guhle and Larsson. They will likely compete for the left-handed spot on the third pairing, though there might be room for both if one is willing to play on his offside. But of the two, I like Guhle’s ceiling far more than I like Larsson’s.
9. Benoit-Olivier Groulx
Acquired: 2018 second round pick (54th overall)
Position: Center
Stats: 65 games played, 31 goals, 49 assists, 80 points; 10 postseason games, 12 points (QMJHL, Halifax Mooseheads)
Benoit-Olivier Groulx is someone who has shot up the Ducks prospect list. He had a solid draft year, but really showed another level last year. Groulx improved his offense significantly and nearly cut his penalty minutes in half.
While I’m not a huge fan of his skating, I really like his hockey IQ. Groulx is a smart kid and he showed that last season. He’s got a great frame at 6’2″ and, more importantly, he knows how to use it. Groulx made the CHL Memorial Cup All-Postseason Team after his impressive 12 points in 10 games.
He wore the “A” on his sweater last season and I could see him wearing the “C” for Halifax next year. Groulx is someone I anticipate moving up quickly on this list as he improves and others graduate.