Radko Gudas has been named the new captain of the Anaheim Ducks, taking over the role from Ryan Getzlaf who retired in 2022. The 34-year-old defenseman joined the Ducks last season after a successful run to the Stanley Cup Final with the Florida Panthers. Gudas has also played for the Washington Capitals, Philadelphia Flyers, and Tampa Bay Lightning, where he won a Calder Cup under Jon Cooper.
Gudas, who won a gold medal at the World Championships with Czechia, will now lead a young Ducks team that includes promising talents like Mason McTavish and Leo Carlsson. General Manager Pat Verbeek praised Gudas for his leadership qualities and his ability to mentor the younger players on the team.
“In assessing our group over the last few seasons, Radko emerged as a natural leader who embodies all the qualities of a captain,” Verbeek said in a statement. “With a young group of players establishing themselves in the NHL, we felt it was necessary to have a veteran lead our team. Radko exemplifies what it means to be a professional on and off the ice and will be a mentor to our young group.”
Gudas is the ninth captain in Ducks franchise history and the first player to wear the “C” on his jersey since Getzlaf’s retirement. His experience and leadership will be crucial as the Ducks look to develop their young talent and build towards the future. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.
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