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For a mid-salary team, the Anaheim Ducks might be slowly gaining edge with a lineup of talented young players on their roster looking for broadened roles on the ice. Last season was just a preview of the Ducks’ development as a team, finishing in second in the conference behind the Chicago Blackhawks.
And with Bobby Ryan traded to the Ottawa Senators, more of the young players will have the opportunity to play a larger role for the Ducks.
Kyle Palmieri, 22, had a total of five goals in seven playoff games against the Detroit Red Wings, and 10 goals with 21 assists in regular season. Palmieri was listed as the left wing on top line alongside Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry for Game 3 of the Red Wings, demonstrating his potential to play on a full-time basis and the increased trust coaches had in him.
The chance for him to play in playoffs last season could possibly foreshadow what’s to come for Palmieri this fall.
Jakob Silfverberg, 22, is the most hyped about newcomer for the Ducks, and could easily play for top line this season. He scored 10 goals over all 48 games for the Senators, and even Bob Murray projected Silfverberg as a top-six forward. Silfverberg’s technique includes quick shots, and he plays with intensity in both offense and defense.
Bruce Bourdeau began setting his trust in Emerson Etem’s game in the 2012-2013 season, where the Long Beach native made his breakthrough at only 20-years old. With three goals and seven assists in 38 games, Etem earned himself the Ducks Fan Award For Emerging Star. Now 21, Ducks’ fans are already calling him the future scoring star, seeing his dedication and confidence and hoping he receives for more minutes on ice.
There is no doubt Palmieri, Silfverberg and Etem are emerging stars for the Ducks.
Ellie Pourang is a sports columnist for Rant Sports You can follow her on twitter @elliepourang or Facebook
