The Anaheim Ducks have decided to part ways with head coach Greg Cronin following two seasons, as confirmed by general manager Pat Verbeek. Despite some improvements seen among the young roster, Verbeek indicated that a change in direction was needed after assessing the team's performance. The Ducks finished with a record of 35-37-10, missing the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season, although they did show a 21-point improvement over the previous year.

Under Cronin, the Ducks managed a total of 62 wins in 164 games. The next head coach will inherit a promising young core, featuring standout performances from players like Mason McTavish, who led the team with 22 goals and 52 points, and Leo Carlsson, the second overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. The Ducks' future looks bright as they continue to develop their young talents.

The Anaheim Ducks claimed a crucial win against the Edmonton Oilers, finishing 3-2 thanks to an impressive second period where Cutter Gauthier netted two goals and Lukas Dostal delivered a season-high 47 saves. The Ducks showcased their potential by taking three of four games against Edmonton this season, capitalizing on the absence of Oilers stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, both sidelined by injuries. Mason McTavish added another goal early in the second period, while Adam Henrique and Jeff Skinner scored for the Oilers, who struggled to maintain their playoff position.

Despite the loss, the Oilers remain in the playoff picture, but their recent defeats to the Ducks place them in a tough spot against the Los Angeles Kings. The Ducks, on the other hand, are showing a resurgence with a commendable home record and multiple players hitting the 17-goal mark, a feat they haven’t achieved since their 2007 championship season.

As the fantasy season nears its climax, maximizing your roster becomes paramount, especially with crucial head-to-head matchups on the horizon. This week, some players are primed for significant contributions due to favorable schedules. While stars like Alex DeBrincat and Patrick Kane from the Detroit Red Wings have been performing well, their limited two-game week makes lesser-known players more attractive for filling rosters.

For instance, Quinton Byfield of the Los Angeles Kings, currently riding a goal-scoring streak, boasts a high availability and faces multiple matchups this week. Similarly, Nick Schmaltz and Mason McTavish are also noteworthy options, offering the potential for high returns. Managers should consider streaming players from teams like the Bruins, Lightning, and Maple Leafs who have a more favorable schedule.

The Anaheim Ducks face an uphill battle for playoff contention, sitting at 28-28-7 with a mere 0.1% chance of making the postseason. Despite a recent 4-1 victory against the New York Islanders, they trail behind wild-card teams significantly. The Ducks are focusing on future success following the trade of veteran defenseman Cam Fowler to the St. Louis Blues, which marks a pivotal shift in their rebuilding phase. Cam recorded impressive points in St. Louis, while John Gibson remains a key player in goal, staying put despite trade rumors due to strategic considerations and a solid performance this season.

As the Ducks look ahead, their deadline moves reflect a balance between short-term competitiveness and long-term development. With key players like Mason McTavish leading the youth movement, Ducks fans are urged to remain patient as General Manager Pat Verbeek diligently steers the franchise toward sustainable success.

Fantasy managers will find valuable players to enhance their rosters as the NHL season progresses. Pavel Dorofeyev of the Golden Knights, with a 31% roster rate, is a prime target with 10 goals and 18 points in just 21 games. Dylan Cozens, now with the Senators, offers potential for assists and points after a fresh start. Nick Schmaltz, also a solid option, has shown improvement in his recent games. Jonathan Drouin's role in Colorado's revamped lineup promises upside, especially with the return of key players. Mason McTavish and Alex Vlasic present good value, while Vitek Vanecek, a new acquisition for Florida, could emerge as a reliable goaltending option. Lastly, Colton Sissons, with multi-category contributions, is someone to keep an eye on.