The Anaheim Ducks are navigating an intriguing set of roster moves early in the NHL season. In a surprising development, the team has placed veteran winger Frank Vatrano on the non-roster list as he and his family prepare to welcome a new child. The 30-year-old’s absence, while joyous on a personal level, leaves a void in the Ducks’ forward group that will need to be filled by the team’s young prospects.
Opportunity Knocks for Jansen Harkins
Enter Jansen Harkins, the 27-year-old center who has been recalled from the San Diego Gulls of the AHL. Harkins, a former second-round pick of the Winnipeg Jets, spent last season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, appearing in 45 games and recording four assists. Now, he has a chance to make an impact with the Ducks and prove he belongs in the NHL.
According to a close source within the organization, the Ducks are excited to see what Harkins can bring to the table. “Jansen is a skilled, versatile forward who has been knocking on the door of a full-time NHL role for a while now,” the source said. “With Frank stepping away for family reasons, this is Jansen’s opportunity to show what he can do at this level.”
Harkins’ Path to Anaheim
Harkins’ journey to this point has been one of persistence and growth. Originally drafted 47th overall by the Jets in 2015, he spent parts of four seasons with Winnipeg, recording 13 goals and 18 assists in 154 games. Last season, he found himself in a depth role with the Penguins, but now, he has a chance to carve out a more significant place in Anaheim.
I’ve been working hard to be ready for an opportunity like this. I know I can contribute at the NHL level, and I’m excited to show what I can do with the Ducks.
– Jansen Harkins
Lundestrom’s Injury Adds Intrigue
As if the Vatrano and Harkins moves weren’t enough, the Ducks are also dealing with an injury to center Isac Lundestrom. The 24-year-old Swede is considered day-to-day with an upper-body injury suffered in the team’s overtime victory over the Utah Hockey Club on Wednesday.
Lundestrom’s absence, however long it lasts, further complicates the Ducks’ forward situation. The team will need its depth players to step up and fill the void, and Harkins will undoubtedly be counted on to play a significant role.
The Road Ahead for Anaheim
As the Ducks navigate these early-season roster challenges, they will need to rely on their organizational depth and the resilience of their locker room. Head coach Jeff Solomon will have to find the right combinations to keep the team competitive in a tough Pacific Division.
For players like Jansen Harkins, this is the chance they’ve been waiting for. The opportunity to prove themselves at the game’s highest level, to show that they belong in the NHL. The coming days and weeks will be critical for Harkins and the Ducks as they look to establish themselves as contenders in the Western Conference.
The Anaheim Ducks’ season is just beginning, but already, the twists and turns are coming fast and furious. With Vatrano stepping away, Harkins stepping up, and Lundestrom on the mend, the team’s depth and character will be tested. But if there’s one thing we know about hockey players, it’s that they always rise to the occasion when opportunity knocks.
