Comparing, Projecting Carlsson's Second Year Point Total

Since 2023-24, nine forwards had made significant impacts in each NHL zone, driving play in all situations across multiple seasons (at least 35) following their draft. Their presence dominated play across every level. No matter whether his team was in possession or not, he was an effective puck-magnet. Offensively he assisted breakthroughs as an experienced center, gathering speed to attack both neutral and offensive zones with precision and speed. Carlsson effortlessly moved pucks up ice into dangerous zones at will, either creating shots for himself or finding teammates streaking across soft ice. Though public metrics don’t fully capture it, Carlsson created numerous dangerous opportunities all by himself that created dangerous shots against. His creation of shots for himself or finding team mates streaking was nothing short of extraordinary. Carlsson should see an uptick in points as his tight finishing improves and with 55 NHL games under his belt Carlsson should become more adept at understanding when and where pressure comes from, reading plays defensively as he anticipates, protects, and comes out of battles with possession more often attracting puck to him moving forward. Even modest progress would create lasting change as the Ducks attempt to overcome their lengthy rebuild in 2024-25. Gauthier may reach his projection for a 59-point sophomore campaign with the Ducks this season if given enough opportunities. Both Gauthier and Zellweger received their first on-ice look of Ducks uniforms during on-ice testing sessions this past August; Gauthier highlighted as part of Ducks 2024 rookie camp roster as well.