According to Eric Stephens of the Athletic, the Anaheim Ducks made a strong case in attempt to sign two star free agents during free agency week and came up short.

General manager Pat Verbeek made it clear over the past several weeks that he is looking for veteran talent to help the young team grow and he made his best effort to sign Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault.

He offered generous contracts and hoped they would sign but unfortunately, they decided to join the Nashville Predators.
Both players would have given the Ducks an instant boost in terms of offense and veteran leadership as both players are Stanley Cup winners and have had great seasons over the past couple of years.

Stamkos, has come from a 40-goal season at the age of 36 and has looked great over the past couple of years since he had his gruesome leg injury.

Marchessault also had a great season where he scored 42 goals it was a dominant force in the Golden Knights lineup. Both players are heading to a team that seems to be building for a winner and they will be a great addition for the Predators.

As for the Ducks, they will continue their rebuilding phase through the draft and potentially looking at other players to sign or trade for over the coming months. Rumors have been circulating that Trevor Zegras is available for trade as he is seeking a change of scenery and holds a cap hit of $5.7 million and two years remaining on his deal.

There is much work to be done for the Ducks and it’s expected that Verbeek will be busy throughout his summer and into this upcoming season as he continues to reshape their roster for the future.