In a significant move in the NHL, the Anaheim Ducks have bolstered their defensive lineup by acquiring seasoned defenseman Brian Dumoulin from the Seattle Kraken. The transaction, which finalized on Tuesday, saw the Ducks trading away a fourth-round draft pick in 2026 to secure Dumoulin’s experience and skills on the ice.
An Experienced Veteran Joins the Ducks
Brian Dumoulin, now 32, comes with a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the NHL. Having spent a decade with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Dumoulin became known for his reliable defensive play and his contributions to the team’s overall success. Post-Penguins, Dumoulin penned a two-year deal with the NHL’s newest franchise, the Seattle Kraken, further solidifying his standing in the league.
During the 2022-23 season with the Kraken, Dumoulin played in 80 games, showcasing his durability and commitment. He recorded six goals and 10 assists, while maintaining a plus-3 rating—figures that reflect his balanced playstyle and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. Over his entire NHL career, Dumoulin has accumulated 155 points, comprising 25 goals and 130 assists in 626 games, coupled with an impressive career plus-96 rating.
A Strategic Move for the Anaheim Ducks
The acquisition of Dumoulin by the Ducks indicates the team’s strategic move to strengthen its blue line with seasoned talent. The Ducks, looking to build a roster capable of contending in the competitive NHL landscape, see Dumoulin's veteran presence and playoff experience as invaluable assets.
Dumoulin’s tenure with the Penguins was particularly notable for his role in their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017. His experience in high-pressure situations is expected to benefit the Ducks’ young defensive core, providing mentorship and stable defensive performances. This trade is not just about adding a player; it’s about integrating a leader who has navigated the rigors of long NHL seasons and playoff runs.
What Dumoulin Brings to Anaheim
Brian Dumoulin’s game is characterized by his solid defensive play, keen hockey sense, and calmness under pressure. While not the flashiest player on the ice, his reliability and ability to disrupt the opposition’s play make him an asset to any team. His plus-96 career rating reflects his defensive prowess, showcasing his ability to keep the puck out of his own net while being a steady presence on the blue line.
Offensively, Dumoulin has shown he can contribute when needed. His six goals and 10 assists last season with the Kraken demonstrate his capability to join offensive plays and capitalize on scoring opportunities. His overall career statistics, with 25 goals and 130 assists, portray a player who knows when to pick his spots to support his team’s scoring efforts.
Anticipation for the Upcoming Season
As the Anaheim Ducks gear up for the upcoming season, the addition of Brian Dumoulin is expected to be a significant boon. Ducks' fans and teammates alike are likely anticipating the immediate impact of Dumoulin's presence on the ice. With his extensive playoff experience and a career that boasts consistency and reliability, Dumoulin’s arrival could signal a new chapter for the Ducks’ defensive squad.
While trades of this nature always come with a degree of risk, the Ducks' management and coaching staff are clearly confident that Dumoulin’s performance and leadership will justify the fourth-round draft pick they traded away. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Dumoulin integrates into the Ducks’ defensive system and how his presence influences the team’s performance in their pursuit of success in the NHL.