The Anaheim Ducks will be missing their captain, Radko Gudas, for Game 2 against the Edmonton Oilers due to an undisclosed injury. According to Jason Gregor of Sports 1440, Gudas will be replaced by Drew Helleson, who will be making his Stanley Cup Playoffs debut.
Radko Gudas’ Impact on the Team
In Game 1, Gudas played less than 10 minutes. He was also sidelined for the season finale as a precaution. Previously, Gudas had sustained a lower-body injury during a matchup against the Calgary Flames on March 26. This injury led him to miss nine of the last ten games of the season.
Current Status of Gudas
Although the exact connection between his earlier injury and his current absence is unclear, it’s evident that Gudas is still recovering. He is currently listed as day-to-day, as reported by Zach Laing from Oilers Nation.
Season Performance
During the recent games, Gudas has accumulated two points and 39 penalty minutes in his last 13 games, contributing to a season total of 13 points, 67 penalty minutes, and 164 hits over 56 games. This season, he has shown a decline in both scoring and aggressive play, especially at 35 years old, after achieving 18 points and 128 penalty minutes two seasons prior.
Drew Helleson’s Role
In light of Gudas’ absence, Helleson will need to step up in the third defensive pair. The 24-year-old defenseman recorded 15 points and 63 hits this season, along with 79 blocked shots in 60 games. Much of his experience came while filling in during Gudas’ injury spells.
- Helleson’s achievements include a Gold Medal at the 2018 World U17 Hockey Challenge.
- He also secured a Gold Medal at the 2021 World Junior Championships.
Although Helleson may not match Gudas’ physical playing style, he is expected to play responsibly alongside rookie defenseman Tyson Hinds, thereby contributing effectively to the Ducks’ playoff aspirations.
