Locked On Ducks - Daily Podcast On The Anaheim Ducks

On todays episode of Locked On Ducks, Kyle dives into what success looks like for the Anaheim Ducks in 2026-27. Kyle dives into a possible expansion draft and what that looks like for Anaheim, and finishes off with discussing the newest rankings of every center in the NHL by the NHL Network.

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On todays episode, Kyle answers questions from listeners, while also predicting how the pacific division will play out in 2026-2027. Kyle finishes with discussing where the Ducks could use the money tied up to Cutter Gauthier if the Ducks and Gauthier can not come to an agreement. 

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Kyle talks about the Cutter Gauthier situation and the after effect of the Leo Carlsson debacle. Kyle dives into the defensive woes that could ultimately hurt the Ducks in 2026-27. Kyle finishes with speaking about the newest article from The Athletic, which dives into the front office rankings among the NHL and where the Ducks lie in terms of perception among the public and the fans. 

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Anaheim Ducks GM Pat Verbeek jeopardized the future of the franchise with his handling of the Leo Carlsson saga this summer. On today's show, new host Kyle Clements digs into why Verbeek's stubbornness when negotiating with his best players could set the Ducks' rebuild up for long term failure. Next, Kyle talks about what the reasonable expectations should be for the team this season. And to wrap up, Kyle discusses why it's put up or shut up time for Ducks goalie Lukas Dostal. 

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Anaheim Ducks’ youth movement takes center stage as Tyson Hinds, Ville Husso, and Ross Johnston make their cases for expanded roles. Can these rising contributors power the Ducks toward a brighter future? Kyle Kjer spotlights Hinds’ physical presence on the blue line, Husso’s steady work in net, and Johnston’s dramatic turnaround under coach Joel Quenneville, with a focus on smart forechecking and career-best production. 

Key analysis covers contract outlooks for restricted and unrestricted free agents, evolving defensive pairings with prospects like Tristan Luneau, and the Ducks’ goaltending question marks as the team eyes potential trade opportuniti...

Anaheim Ducks break their eight-season playoff drought, igniting fresh hope with breakout performances from Cutter Gauthier and Leo Carlsson. Can this new core propel Anaheim back to championship contention? The review spotlights Gauthier’s 41-goal surge, goaltender Lukáš Dostál’s first postseason campaign, and the surprising second-round battle against Vegas, while raising questions about what might have been with a few different bounces. 

Kyle Kjer recaps the highs and lows of the Ducks’ past decade, from Ryan Getzlaf’s two-way brilliance and John Gibson’s standout years to recent growing pains and top draft picks. Key points include...

Anaheim Ducks weigh tough questions after Radko Gudas’ inconsistent season and playoff controversy. Can the captain rebound, or is his tenure in Anaheim over? Jansen Harkins emerges as a fourth-line force, while Drew Helleson leaves fans divided over defensive blunders and stalled development. 

Kyle Kjer delivers straight talk on Gudas' streaky year, the shutdown duo of Harkins and Ross Johnston, and the coaching staff’s puzzling faith in Helleson—even as waiver concerns limit call-ups. Key topics include statistical breakdowns, the impact of December’s losing streak, and contract futures for Anaheim’s depth players. Get the scoop on wh...

Anaheim Ducks’ postseason hopes hinge on goaltending woes and breakout stars. Can Lukáš Dostál rebound after a shaky campaign, or will the pressure spark major changes in Anaheim’s crease? 

Kyle Kjer assesses Dostál’s struggles with first-shot goals, his subpar save percentage, and the urgent need for a reliable backup. Cutter Gauthier’s rise as a 41-goal scorer and point-per-game playoff performer signals a new era for the Ducks, while Mikael Granlund silences early skepticism with clutch playoff goals and physical play despite regular season injuries. The conversation explores player grades, leadership potential for Gauthier, and...

Anaheim Ducks’ playoff hopes hinge on bold trade for John Carlson—will the high price pay off as contract talks loom? Leo Carlsson cements himself as Anaheim’s 1C with a breakout season, while questions swirl around Sam Colangelo’s future after an inconsistent year between the Ducks and San Diego Gulls. 

Kyle Kjer grades key Ducks performances, analyzing John Carlson’s steady blue line presence, Leo Carlson’s dynamic two-way play, and the struggles that kept Sam Colangelo from locking down a roster spot. Insights include player development, trade strategy, and contract negotiations as Pat Verbeek looks to buil...

Anaheim Ducks shake up their future with bold moves and locker room culture shifts. Can Pat Verbeek’s aggressive offseason strategy and Joel Quenneville’s fresh coaching style deliver playoff success next year? 

Kyle Kjer spotlights Pat Verbeek’s controversial roster changes, including the hiring of Joel Quenneville, Trevor Zegras’s unexpected trade to the Flyers, and the arrival of veterans like Chris Kreider and Mikael Granlund. The episode examines the challenges of signing key RFAs like Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier, plus the uncertain futures of veterans Jacob Trouba and John Carlson. Explore how Quenneville’s player-firs...

Detroit Red Wings rocked as Dylan Larkin requests a trade—could the Anaheim Ducks land their next center? As Larkin eyes a destination with winning culture, Anaheim emerges as a prime landing spot, raising questions about Mason McTavish’s future and how Pat Verbeek might reshape the depth chart. 

Kyle Kjer breaks down the potential blockbuster swap, spotlighting Larkin’s two-way prowess, faceoff dominance, and immediate fit as Anaheim’s 2C behind Leo Carlsson. The episode explores the ripple effects a deal would have on the Ducks’ playoff mindset, salary cap considerations, and Detroit’s need for youthful tale...

Anaheim Ducks spark excitement in Southern California hockey as Henry and Susan Samueli announce a state-of-the-art, three-sheet ice facility in Escondido, aiming to expand the sport’s reach from youth leagues to adults. Will this bold investment cement Orange and San Diego counties as hockey hotbeds and inspire the next generation of fans and players? 

Host Kyle Kjer spotlights the Rinks Foundation’s growth, community impact, and innovative programs—highlighting access to learn-to-play gear, accessible public skating, and inclusive adult leagues. Key topics include high school hockey’s explosive expansion, dynamic watch parties at Honda Center, evolving in-game e...

Anaheim Ducks face a pivotal offseason as contract talks and looming trades threaten to reshape their young, promising core. Could Cutter Gauthier or Leo Carlsson emerge as the next franchise cornerstone—and will Pat Verbeek's bold moves pay off? Key questions surround the futures of veterans like Cam Fowler, Radko Gudas, and Chris Kreider, while defensive prospects Pavel Mintyukov and Olen Zellweger battle for roster stability. 

Host Kyle Kjer, joined by Ducks fan and golf pro Brooke Ellis, breaks down Anaheim’s potential roster shakeups, RFA negotiations, and pressing needs on defense and at center ice. Will Dylan...

Anaheim Ducks set sights on a defensive overhaul and key trades as the offseason heats up. Can landing Rasmus Andersson from the Vegas Golden Knights finally solidify their blue line depth? The conversation focused on the Ducks' need for a top-four defenseman and a versatile top-six forward, with speculation swirling around free agents like John Carlson and Jacob Trouba, plus intriguing trade possibilities involving Olen Zellweger. 

A key theme that emerged was Anaheim’s pursuit of a strong two-way forward, with Jake DeBrusk of the Vancouver Canucks named as a prime target to boost both offense and def...

Anaheim Ducks fans have plenty to be excited about as hungry prospects like Maxim Massé, Emil Guite, and Roger McQueen post eye-popping stats and prepare for their shot at the NHL. Can rising talents like Sasha Pastujov, Nikita Nesterenko, and standout defensemen Tristan Luneau and Stain Solberg transform the Ducks' roster next season? Kyle Kjer breaks down where each prospect stands, analyzes junior, NCAA, European, and AHL performances, and calls out who’s ready to challenge for a roster spot. 

Key topics include the goaltending battle between Damian Clara and Calle Clang, the physical presence of Noah Warr...

Anaheim Ducks’ special teams falter despite high-octane five-on-five play—can revamped strategies spark a turnaround next season? Kyle Kjer unpacks the team’s power play struggles, spotlighting the decline from early-season dynamism to predictable, stagnant puck movement during the playoffs. Key players like Cutter Gauthier, Chris Kreider, and Mikael Granlund delivered moments, yet zone entry woes and hesitation led to missed opportunities, especially against the Vegas Golden Knights’ relentless penalty kill. 

The penalty kill, led by Ryan McGill, flashes aggression and nets multiple shorthanded goals from Leo Carlsson, Troy Terry, and Ryan Poehling, but coverage breakdowns and wavering...

Anaheim Ducks’ porous defense nearly derails playoff hopes—can Pat Verbeek fix this leaky blue line? Kyle Kjer spotlights glaring defensive lapses, from Anaheim’s 30th-ranked goals against and penalty kill struggles to key players like Drew Helleson, Pavel Mintyukov, and Radko Gudas underperforming. Lukáš Dostál shouldered a heavy load in net but faced relentless second-chance opportunities, highlighting urgent questions about goaltending depth and backup reliability with Petr Mrazek’s uncertain future. 

On offense, Leo Carlsson, Cutter Gauthier, and Troy Terry shine as comeback specialists, sparking high-scoring battles and thrilling late-game heroics. Yet, with Mason McTavish’s future uncle...

Anaheim Ducks hold the keys to an NHL blockbuster: could Auston Matthews be heading west in a core-shaking trade? Kyle Kjer explores three dramatic trade proposals, weighing the cost of landing the Toronto Maple Leafs’ superstar center. From packages built around Mason McTavish, Troy Terry, and Pavel Mintyukov, to the bold inclusion of rising star Cutter Gauthier, every scenario puts the Ducks’ future and cap flexibility to the test. 

Key topics include Toronto’s need for immediate roster talent versus long-term assets, Anaheim’s willingness to sacrifice promising youth for an MVP-caliber franchise anchor, and how Matthews could tra...

Anaheim Ducks fans brace for a franchise-defining decision: Who should wear the captain’s “C” as a new era dawns in Orange County? Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier headline the conversation, with Kyle Kjer breaking down their leadership styles, on-ice impact, and unique personalities. Is Carlsson’s poised, pass-first playmaking enough, or does Gauthier’s physical, no-nonsense edge better fit the Ducks’ captaincy mold? 

Contract negotiations take center stage as projections for Carlsson, Gauthier, and key role players fuel speculation about Anaheim’s future core. Kyle Kjer analyzes potential long-term deals, the team’s evolving salary cap strategy, and key...

Anaheim Ducks’ playoff run ends, but a new era emerges as Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier headline the team’s future. Can this young core deliver the Stanley Cup fans crave? Kyle Kjer and Ducks superfan Chris Latorre break down the highs and heartbreaks of the 25/26 season, from Beckett Sennecke’s breakout rookie campaign and Alex Killorn’s veteran leadership to goaltending concerns around Lukáš Dostál and backup options like Calle Clang. 

Key topics include defensive shakeups, the futures of Radko Gudas and Jacob Trouba, and the looming contract negotiations for Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier. The duo deba...

Anaheim Ducks’ playoff hopes end after a tough Game 6 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights—but is this only the beginning for Anaheim’s rising young core? Kyle Kjer breaks down the key moments, including William Karlsson’s electric setup for Mitch Marner, struggles from Jackson LaCombe and John Carlson on defense, and standout efforts from Beckett Sennecke and Mikael Granlund. The Ducks’ lack of physicality and playoff experience was on full display, as Vegas dominated puck battles and shut down Anaheim’s top lines. 

Turning to the offseason, Kyle Kjer highlights major roster questions facing Pat Verbeek: will...

Anaheim Ducks fight to advance in the playoffs, leaning on Lukáš Dostál’s resilience in net despite high-danger struggles. Can improved defensive schemes and momentum carry them past the Vegas Golden Knights and into the third round? 

Host Kyle Kjer breaks down Dostál’s playoff performance, rebound control issues, and mental fortitude, while guest Justis Reece dives into statistical insights, including high-danger save percentages and defensive breakdowns. Key discussion points feature the Ducks’ evolving defensive strategy, the impact of young blueliners like Olen Zellweger and Ian Moore, and the looming threat from Colorado Avalanche’s offensive fir...

Anaheim Ducks ignite their playoff chase as Beckett Sennecke continues his electrifying point streak, joining franchise history with a trio of postseason goals before turning 21. Can the Ducks’ relentless second line be the X-factor in their battle against the Vegas Golden Knights? 

Kyle Kjer spotlights Sennecke’s evolution into a Calder Trophy contender, dissecting his adaptability, high hockey IQ, and fearless physicality against top NHL talent. The episode highlights the chemistry of Anaheim’s second line—Beckett Sennecke, Alex Killorn, and Mikael Granlund—who have generated 23 points in 10 games, while recognizing their defensive challenges. Defensive young-guns Ian Moore and O...

Anaheim Ducks falter in Game 3 as Lukáš Dostál’s struggles leave fans frustrated and the offense searching for answers. Can the young core rally to save the series, or will special teams be the team’s undoing? 

Kyle Kjer breaks down the Ducks’ sleepy start at Honda Center, Dostál’s shaky goaltending, and a power play that has all but vanished against the Vegas Golden Knights. Key topics include Leo Carlsson’s persistent efforts, Beckett Sennecke’s third playoff goal, and the glaring predictability of Anaheim’s special teams under Jay Woodcroft. The episode also explores how the ve...

Anaheim Ducks rookie sensation Beckett Sennecke trades highlight-reel goals for gritty playoff hockey, proving he’s more than just a Calder finalist. Can his physical, adaptable play and high hockey IQ help push the Ducks past the Vegas Golden Knights? Kyle Kjer spotlights Sennecke’s evolution from an underestimated prospect to a crucial third-line force, while comparing his playoff style to legends like Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf. 

Mikael Granlund’s relentless forechecking, physicality, and near point-per-game pace come under the microscope as a key factor in Anaheim’s postseason run. Kjer breaks down the Ducks’ defensive adjustments...

Anaheim Ducks outlast Vegas Golden Knights as Lukáš Dostál nearly clinches a shutout. Can the Ducks unlock their struggling power play in time for a home-ice surge? 

Kyle Kjer breaks down Anaheim’s 3-1 win, focusing on the Ducks’ ongoing power play frustrations and the impact of critical lineup changes—featuring standout performances from Leo Carlsson, Ross Johnston, and Jansen Harkins. Special teams take center stage: despite missed opportunities with the man advantage, the Ducks’ penalty kill holds strong against Vegas, while Dostál anchors the defense with highlight-reel saves. Key topics include the effectiveness of the new physi...

Anaheim Ducks rally behind Lukáš Dostál’s stellar performance despite a narrow Game 1 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights. Can Leo Carlsson lead a breakout in Game 2 and ignite the Ducks’ offense? Kyle Kjer spotlights Dostal’s growth under playoff pressure, comparing his resilience against both the Vegas attack and the raucous Edmonton Oilers’ crowd, and breaks down critical defensive adjustments for Anaheim’s next test. 

Key topics include the need for strategic line changes—moving Cutter Gauthier alongside Leo Carlsson and Troy Terry—and analyzing Chris Kreider’s struggles on the top line. The conversation dives into the power...

Anaheim Ducks drop a nail-biter to the Vegas Golden Knights after Jackson LaCombe’s gut-wrenching missed shot and a controversial non-icing call fueled debate. Did one mental lapse and officiating chaos shift the momentum in Round Two of the Stanley Cup Playoffs? 

Kyle Kjer dissects the Ducks’ defensive improvement, the impact of Coach Quenneville’s questionable line combinations, and Chris Kreider’s baffling Game 1 performance. Key topics include Carter Hart’s steadfast goaltending, Leo Carlsson’s efforts to ignite the offense, and the urgent need for roster adjustments—could Ross Johnston be the missing grit against Vegas? With the Ducks...

Anaheim Ducks shock the Edmonton Oilers as Cutter Gauthier dominates, powering a resilient squad into Round 2. Can this young, hungry team keep the magic rolling and upset another playoff giant? 

Kyle Kjer spotlights Gauthier’s breakout performance—highlighting his physical edge, power play prowess, and game-winning goals—alongside Jackson LaCombe’s stabilizing play, Chris Kreider’s timely scoring, and key contributions from Troy Terry and Ryan Poehling. The episode breaks down Anaheim’s evolving strategy, their physical forecheck, and the lessons learned from a high-octane series against Edmonton. With a potential showdown against the Vegas Golden Knights or Utah Mammo...

Anaheim Ducks eye series win as Troy Terry faces make-or-break Game 6 at Honda Center. Can the Ducks harness their pace and teamwork to close out the Edmonton Oilers and advance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs? 

Kyle Kjer spotlights Troy Terry’s need to rebound after two quiet games, breaking down his chemistry with Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier, key forechecking tactics, and the all-important F1-F2-F3 structure. The episode explores Anaheim’s struggle with Edmonton’s stretch passes, the impact of home-ice advantage, and the importance of quick, team-oriented transitions. With no major lineup changes expected, Kyle Kj...

Anaheim Ducks face tough questions after pulling Lukáš Dostál following three early goals against the Edmonton Oilers. Can the team regain their composure and close out the series, or will the goalie controversy shake their confidence heading into Game 6? 

Kyle Kjer breaks down the Ducks' 4-1 loss, analyzing Dostál’s struggles with first-shot goals, Ville Husso’s strong relief performance, and Coach Joel Quenneville’s decision to make a statement with the mid-game goalie change. The episode explores the impact of poor officiating on both teams, line shuffling, the potential return of Ross Johnston for added physi...

Anaheim Ducks surge to a 3-1 series lead as Jackson LaCombe dominates both ends of the ice—can this young squad pull off a playoff shocker in Edmonton? Kyle Kjer spotlights LaCombe's standout performances, from shutting down Connor McDavid to leading the NHL playoffs in points, and questions what Team USA missed by leaving him off their Olympic roster. 

Mikael Granlund’s relentless forechecking and timely offense provide crucial balance, while veterans like Alex Killorn fuel Anaheim’s confidence and chemistry. Key topics include defensive improvements, the impact of Pat Verbeek’s roster moves, and the high-stakes mind game...

Anaheim Ducks seize 3-1 series lead over the Edmonton Oilers as Ryan Poehling scores a dramatic OT winner amidst video review controversy. Is Anaheim’s playoff magic building to something special? Kyle Kjer breaks down the franchise-record offensive outburst, Poehling’s timely goals, and how depth forwards like Jeffrey Viel and Tim Washe are turning the fourth line into an unexpected weapon. 

Lukáš Dostál’s clutch performance in net—highlighted by key saves on Connor McDavid—anchors the Ducks’ defense just when it matters most. Kjer spotlights GM Pat Verbeek’s roster masterclass, including midseason acquisitions that are paying of...

Anaheim Ducks shock Edmonton Oilers with all four lines lighting the lamp in an electric 7–4 home playoff win. Are the Ducks rewriting expectations for this series? 

Kyle Kjer spotlights clutch goals from Leo Carlsson, Alex Killorn, Mason McTavish, Mikael Granlund, Beckett Sennecke and Jeffrey Viel, applauding Coach Q’s aggressive forecheck strategy and the Ducks’ rise as the playoffs’ top-scoring team. The discussion covers Anaheim’s red-hot power play, defensive areas still needing work, and the physical play that rattled Connor McDavid—even as he finally tallied a goal and assist. Can the Ducks’ outscore-your-problems approach hold up against Edmo...

Anaheim Ducks stun the Edmonton Oilers as Cutter Gauthier and Troy Terry ignite a high-scoring playoff battle. Can this young squad power past the Oilers and shake up the Stanley Cup Playoffs? 

Kyle Kjer breaks down the Ducks’ gritty Game 2 victory, spotlighting Gauthier’s clutch performances and Terry’s momentum-shifting contributions. Joined by longtime fan Chris Latorre, the show covers Lukáš Dostál’s goaltending and the crucial role of Anaheim’s defensive structure. Key topics include special teams dominance, the evolution of young stars like Beckett Sennecke and Leo Carlsson, and a candid look at the veterans’ impa...

Anaheim Ducks shake up their lineup ahead of Game 2 against the Edmonton Oilers, with Cutter Gauthier’s breakout potential taking center stage. Can the Ducks’ third line, featuring Mason McTavish and Ryan Poehling, find another gear and tilt the series in Anaheim’s favor? Host Kyle Kjer spotlights Gauthier’s need for offensive spark and physical edge, emphasizing why his performance could make or break Anaheim’s playoff push. 

The episode breaks down Drew Helleson’s surprise playoff debut replacing Radko Gudas, reigniting questions about Olen Zellweger’s puzzling absence. Analysis covers the Ducks’ strategy to counter Edmonton’s top-ti...

Anaheim Ducks charge back into the playoffs as Troy Terry ignites with a multi-goal performance against the Edmonton Oilers. Is Terry poised to lead Anaheim’s new era? Kyle Kjer spotlights how the Ducks’ electrifying young core—featuring Leo Carlsson, Mason McTavish, and Beckett Sennecke—stood tall in Game 1, while seasoned veterans faltered when it mattered most. 

The episode breaks down Anaheim’s aggressive forechecking, defensive structure, and the surprising grit shown by first-time postseason players like Jackson LaCombe and Tyson Hinds. Key questions include whether Olen Zellweger will draw into the lineup, how the Oilers will respond to...

Anaheim Ducks return to the NHL playoffs after eight years, facing the Edmonton Oilers in a matchup packed with youth and untapped potential. Can Troy Terry and Leo Carlsson carry the Ducks past Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl’s battle-tested Oilers? Surging prospects like Cutter Gauthier and Beckett Sennecke spark excitement, while questions swirl around Lukáš Dostál’s playoff readiness and Anaheim’s ability to balance offense with defensive discipline. 

Hosts Kyle Kjer and Nick Seraros spotlight key X-factors, from special teams and goaltending showdowns to the impact of veteran leadership from Jacob Trouba and Radko Gudas. The...

Anaheim Ducks surge into the playoffs as Lukáš Dostál faces immense pressure to lead a young team past the formidable Edmonton Oilers. Can Dostál and Ville Husso anchor a resilient goaltending tandem, or will playoff jitters force lineup changes sooner than expected? The defensive core, guided by veteran John Carlson, gears up to contain Connor McDavid, with key questions swirling around Carlson's leadership and how Anaheim's young defenders will respond under postseason intensity. 

Host Kyle Kjer examines potential MVP candidates, spotlighting Troy Terry’s injury-shortened brilliance and Cutter Gauthier’s consistent drive across all four forward l...

Anaheim Ducks punch their playoff ticket in true Ducks fashion, capping the season with a thrilling win and a long-awaited call-up for Tristan Luneau. Can the rookie’s breakthrough ignite Anaheim’s postseason push against Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers? 

Kyle Kjer breaks down Luneau’s standout performance alongside Hinds, the Ducks’ roller coaster finale against the Nashville Predators, and the seismic impact of Troy Terry’s late-game heroics. Key topics include the persistent power play struggles under Jay Woodcroft, lingering questions about Olen Zellweger and Radko Gudas’ availability, and how Coach Joel Quenneville’s playoff experience coul...