Tampa Sports Today

Tampa Sports News Continuously Updated

Anaheim Ducks Forward Emerging as Future Star

by

The Anaheim Ducks have a young forward who is emerging as a key piece of the franchise’s future. Today, we will look at his 2024-25 stats and the fact that Leo Carlsson is showing impressive two-way play and offensive impact.

Leo Carlsson and his 2024-25 Stats Focusing on the Future

Leo Carlsson is a rising star for the Anaheim Ducks. The Anaheim Ducks’ second overall pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, is proving why he was selected so highly. He was picked immediately after the generationally hyped Connor Bedard. However, Carlsson is making a strong case to be a generational player himself. His skill set draws comparisons to elite two-way centers like Aleksander Barkov and Patrice Bergeron. These comparisons aren’t just wishful thinking and they reflect his potential to be a cornerstone for the Ducks’ future success.

Carlsson’s Offensive Surge of Late

Over his last 18 games, Carlsson has recorded 17 points, showing impressive consistency. His offensive production has been crucial, with multiple multi-point games highlighting his ability to change a game. In a recent matchup against the Dallas Stars, he scored twice, once on a power play and once on a penalty shot. His penalty shot goal was a move that is quickly becoming his signature move.

More Than Just a Scorer

Carlsson isn’t just a goal-scorer; he’s an exceptional playmaker. His vision and hockey IQ allow him to set up teammates and dictate play. The Ducks benefit from his ability to create scoring chances, making their offense more dynamic. He’s already showing flashes of being the type of player who can control the pace of a game, a trait that few young centers possess, but every championship team needs. His speed also stands out, as he effortlessly glides past defenders. Carlsson epitomizes “smooth is fast“.

A Defensive Game That Stands Out

Defensively, Carlsson plays with maturity beyond his years. His backchecking, positioning, and awareness mirror the playstyles of Barkov and Bergeron. Those both being players who are known for their elite two-way abilities. His dedication to a 200-foot game strengthens the Ducks’ defensive structure. Few young centres excel at both ends of the ice as quickly as he has. Future Frank J. Selke Trophy winner anyone?

 

The Barkov and Bergeron Comparisons

The comparisons to Barkov and Bergeron are more than just speculation. Like Barkov, Carlsson blends size, skill, and defensive responsibility into an all-around game. An improvement in the faceoff circle could also generate comparisons to Bergeron, one of the best two-way centres in NHL history. If he continues on this trajectory, he should be the Ducks’ franchise centrepiece for years to come.

Leo Carlsson Earning the Trust of Coaches from his 2024-25 Stats and Beyond

The Ducks’ coaching staff has taken notice of Carlsson’s impact. His ice time has steadily increased, and he is trusted in critical situations. He plays key minutes on the power play and penalty kill, a testament to his versatility. When a young player is given such responsibility early in his career, it speaks volumes about his potential.

Carlsson’s transition from the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) to the NHL has been smooth. His experience with Örebro HK prepared him for the league’s pace and physicality. He led all SHL players under 20 in points per game, which hinted at his ability to thrive at the next level. Now, he is proving that his skills translate to the NHL.

Key to Anaheim’s Championship Future

For the Ducks to return to championship contention, they need an elite centre to build around. Carlsson’s development will be pivotal to their long-term success. NHL teams with strong two-way centres often find themselves competing for the Stanley Cup. If Carlsson reaches his potential, Anaheim could have the foundational piece they need to join that conversation.

Stay Tuned for More from Leo Carlsson Based on his 2024-25 Stats

Leo Carlsson is proving he belongs among the NHL’s next wave of stars. His offensive production, defensive responsibility, and growing leadership make him invaluable to the Ducks’ future. The comparisons to players like Barkov and Bergeron are becoming more evident with each game. As he continues to develop, Carlsson could be the player who leads Anaheim back to Stanley Cup contention.

Main Photo Credit: Jerome Miron – Imagn Images

The post Anaheim Ducks Forward Emerging as Future Star appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.