Anaheim Ducks Decide Against The Extra Muscle To Protect Young Stars

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Matt Garland
October 9, 2023 (8:25)

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With the NHL season finally opening this week, teams are making the final touches on their opening night rosters, which is due to the National Hockey League at 5 p.m. ET on October 10th.

On Sunday evening, the Anaheim Ducks announced that they have released longtime NHL forward Zack Kassian from his professional tryout contract (PTO), making him an unrestricted free agent once again.

We have made the following roster moves:

Assigned to @SDGullsAHL

Olen Zellweger

Placed on Injured Reserve
Alex Killorn

Released from PTO
Zack Kassian

#FlyTogether | @EandELaw"

Kassian appeared in four games for the Anaheim Ducks during the preseason, putting up three points (one goals, two assists) and had seven shots-on-goal.

The Windsor, Ontario native's play was quite respectable, but unfortunately the 32 year old was in a tough position trying to beat out the Ducks' younger options on the fourth line. This could be the end of him as an NHL regular. The AHL or Europe could be next for the former 13th pick from 2009.

The Ducks finished in the basement of the league last season with a record of 23-47-12. They should be able to improve on this a little but many hockey pundits still believe Anaheim will be in the draft lottery come June.

Anaheim will open their 2023-24 schedule on Saturday, October 14th against the Golden Knights in Vegas.

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