Greg Cronin has become the latest casualty in the NHL coaching carousel after being dismissed by the Anaheim Ducks despite the team’s notable 21-point improvement this season. Having coached the Ducks for two seasons, Cronin’s tenure saw the team rise from 59 to 80 points in the standings. However, despite this improvement, they remained out of playoff contention, finishing last in power-play efficiency and struggling with overall scoring. The Ducks' general manager, Pat Verbeek, expressed gratitude for Cronin’s dedication but indicated a need for fresh direction as the franchise strives for contention.

This decision marks Cronin as the first coach to be relieved of his duties following the end of the regular season.

Greg Cronin has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the Anaheim Ducks after two seasons, a decision made by general manager Pat Verbeek following an extensive evaluation period. While Verbeek acknowledged Cronin's role in developing the young core of the team, he emphasized the need for a new direction to enhance the club's chances of becoming a Stanley Cup contender.

Despite a notable improvement in performance, as evidenced by a 21-point increase in overall standings (35-37-10), the Ducks missed the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season. Cronin's overall record with the Ducks stood at 62-87-15, which ultimately did not suffice to retain his position. With Chicago and Philadelphia also undergoing coaching changes, the NHL landscape is poised for further shifts.

John Gibson etched his name in Anaheim Ducks history by becoming the first goalie to play 500 games for the franchise, following a 2-1 victory against the Dallas Stars. Gibson, who made 26 saves, emphasized the importance of focusing on the present rather than reflecting on his career milestones. He is now just four wins shy of tying Jean-Sebastien Giguere for the most wins in Ducks history, having recently celebrated his 200th NHL win. Coach Greg Cronin praised Gibson's calming presence that positively influences the team, while teammate Trevor Zegras expressed admiration for Gibson's skills and character.

Gibson's journey in the NHL has been a rollercoaster, including a difficult previous season and recent health setbacks. This season, he has a 2.70 goals-against average and .915 save percentage, demonstrating his resurgence. The Ducks, who have not made the playoffs since 2018, are currently striving for a spot, sitting seven points behind the final wild card in the Western Conference. With improved performance and Gibson's leadership, the team looks to capitalize on their recent success.

The Philadelphia Flyers dominated the Anaheim Ducks with a decisive 6-0 victory, showcasing a strong performance led by goalie Samuel Ersson, who made 22 saves for a shutout. The Flyers achieved a balanced offensive effort with six different players finding the net, bolstered by contributions from Morgan Frost and Jamie Drysdale in the first period that built a quick 2-0 lead.

Coach John Tortorella praised his team’s hard work and commitment to better checking, stating that they had not played many poor games recently. The Ducks struggled to respond effectively, particularly in the third period, as reflected in coach Greg Cronin's disappointment with his team's lack of a counterattack.

Frank Vatrano solidified his future with the Anaheim Ducks by signing a three-year contract extension through the 2027-28 season and contributing significantly to a 4-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. He scored twice and assisted on another goal in the game, expressing gratitude for his teammates’ support and excitement about building a winning culture.

Vatrano, 30, has been a standout for the Ducks since joining in 2022, with 70 goals and 54 assists in 201 games. His new deal, worth $3 million annually, also includes $9 million in deferred salary starting in 2035, a strategic move to help the team manage its salary cap effectively.