After another playoff miss, the Ducks are heading in a new direction—again.
The Anaheim Ducks have officially parted ways with head coach Greg Cronin after two seasons behind the bench, the team announced Saturday. No replacement has been named at this time.
Cronin, who took over the role in June 2023 after the departure of Dallas Eakins, led the Ducks to a 35-37-10 record this season. While that marked a 21-point improvement from the previous year, it wasn’t enough to snap the franchise’s playoff drought, which now extends to seven consecutive seasons.
Anaheim was officially eliminated from postseason contention back on April 3 following a 4-1 loss to the Calgary Flames.
Verbeek: “We Need a New Voice”
Ducks General Manager Pat Verbeek praised Cronin for his commitment and influence on the team’s youth movement but said the organization ultimately needed a change.
“Greg has played a big role in the development of our young core,” Verbeek said. “But after weeks of evaluation, I believe a new direction and a fresh voice is needed as we keep pushing toward becoming a Stanley Cup contender.”
Cronin finishes his time in Anaheim with a 62-87-15 record in what was his first NHL head coaching opportunity. Before joining the Ducks, he spent five seasons in the AHL with the Colorado Eagles and previously coached in the Islanders’ farm system with Bridgeport.
Signs of Progress, But Not Enough
Despite the disappointing result, there were reasons for optimism. Anaheim’s 80 points this season were the highest since 2018 and showed real progress from a very young roster.
Team captain Radko Gudas acknowledged the mixed emotions at the end of the year.
“It’s frustrating to miss the playoffs, but you can see the growth in our young guys. The future is bright if we keep building,” Gudas said.
Indeed, the Ducks’ core is brimming with youthful talent. Players aged 22 or younger contributed 178 points this season—second only to San Jose. Standouts included:
- Mason McTavish (22 goals, 52 points)
- Leo Carlsson (20 goals, 44 points)
- Cutter Gauthier (20 goals, 44 points)
- Pavel Mintyukov and Olen Zellweger anchoring the blue line
What’s Next for Anaheim?
With Cronin out and no successor yet named, all eyes turn to Verbeek and the Ducks’ front office as they search for the right leader to guide a promising but unproven roster.
Cronin is the sixth NHL coach to be let go this season, joining names like Jim Montgomery (Bruins), Luke Richardson (Blackhawks), and John Tortorella (Flyers). The carousel is spinning—and Anaheim is once again on the ride.
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