Free Agency: Getzlaf Returns To Anaheim; Ducks Sign Rafferty

Photo: NHL

By Michael Walters

Earlier today it was announced by Kevin Weekes that Ryan Getzlaf had re-signed with the Ducks for a one year deal. Shortly after the news broke, then there were conflicting reports stating a deal was not done with Anaheim yet. In the end, Getzlaf did re-sign for a one year deal with the Ducks worth $4.5 million.

On Tuesday Getzlaf did say he had an “itch” to explore free agency since he had never been in this position before. It’s not uncommon for an unrestricted free agent to see what is out there on the market before deciding to return to their former team. A player can see who can offer the best deal and then decide from there. There were rumblings of interest from teams like Dallas and Montreal, but the captain decided to stay with Anaheim.

Bob Murray on bringing back the captain: “It was always our intention to sign Ryan, and we are thrilled he chose to stay. His loyalty to this franchise is unique in pro sports, and it is our hope he remains a Duck for his entire career.”

In a conference call today, Getzlaf did say he wants to see Murray add some pieces to make the team stronger but still seemed confident with the current roster. He wanted to stay with the Ducks and was glad to get the deal done.

Ducks Sign Brogan Rafferty

Anaheim did make one other move as the free agency period began. The Ducks signed defenseman Brogan Rafferty for $750,000. He has played in three games for the Vancouver Canucks in the last two seasons and recorded one assist. He played in 57 games with the AHL Utica Comets last season recording 45 total points(7 goals + 38 assists) and was a +17.

Rafferty is a good skater with a solid hockey IQ. He can read the play well which leads to good positioning. He can play all three zones and is a good two-way player. He does need to work on his physicality and could be a bottom pairing in the NHL. He will start next season with the Gulls as he was brought in to add depth to the organization.

With these two signings, Anaheim has just over $18 million in cap space according to Cap Friendly. The Ducks do still have restricted free agents Max Comtois, Max Jones, Isac Lundestrom, Josh Mahura, and Sam Steel to sign which will take up at least $5 million.

More Coaching Additions

Daniel Jacob and Max Talbot were hired as assistant coaches for the San Diego Gulls. Daniel Jacob was an assist coach for Joel Bouchard while in Laval for three years. The Anaheim organization has overhauled the entire couching staff with the exception of Dallas Eakins this offseason.

Free Agents Moving On

Andrew Agozzino signed a one year two-way deal worth $800,000 with the Ottawa Senators. Chase De Leo signed a one year two-way deal worth $750,000 with the New Jersey Devils.

Other Anaheim unrestricted free agents looking for new teams include David Backes, Andrew Poturalski, Carter Rowney, and Andy Welinski.

Danton Heinen, the only restricted free agent the Ducks did not extend a qualifying offer to, also has yet to find a new home.

Trades Coming?

Yes, Jack Eichel is still available and yes, the Ducks still have interest in him. It does seem, however, talks about him being moved have slowed down recently according to TSN’s Bob McKenzie.

There have also been talks again of the Ducks wanting to trade Adam Henrique. Could he be part of a deal for Eichel or another trade? Stay tuned.

Related Articles:

Ducks Hire Geoff Ward & Mike Stothers

New Coaches and … New Players?

Eichel To Anaheim?

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July 28th, 2021