Using the VUKOTA projection system of Hockey Prospectus, Insider is taking the temperature of key players on every NHL team, continuing with the Anaheim Ducks. For a detailed explanation of Prospectus' proprietary GVT value metric, read more here.
Note: Because of the lockout, GVT scores for the 2013 season are prorated from 48 to 82 games.
Summer Skate: Anaheim Ducks
While there is no shame in losing to the Detroit Red Wings in a seven-game series, many expected the Anahiem Ducks to go further in the playoffs last spring, given how well they played in the regular season. Even with their struggles in March and April, this was a team some considered capable of making a deep playoff run. At least, that's how it appeared on the surface.
The Ducks had some concerns throughout the season -- such as a slow defensive corps and no consistent second-line center -- and got off to a hot start because the team was scoring on over 10 percent of the shots they took for the first month. While Anaheim does have strong talent as well as good coaching from Bruce Boudreau, it will be interesting to see how their 2013-14 season shakes out, likely without the aid of their previous shooting luck.
Trending up: F Kyle Palmieri
Last season: 7.7 GVT | VUKOTA projection: 10.9