The Anaheim Ducks may be in a funk, but unfortunately, it’s not a new trend

Ethan McGarvey of Pucks of a Feather analyzes the Anaheim Ducks' recent struggles following a 4-1 defeat to the New Jersey Devils. The loss extended the Ducks' losing streak to five consecutive games, leaving the team with eight points and sitting outside of the Western Conference playoff picture.

McGarvey argues that the slump mirrors a six-game skid from late in the 2025-26 season, citing poor special teams and ongoing defensive lapses in front of goaltenders Ville Husso and Lukas Dostal. However, McGarvey notes reason for optimism, pointing to better goaltending statistics and expected scoring rebounds from Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier, despite defenseman Pavel Mintyukov being placed on injured reserve.