Looking ahead for the Anaheim Ducks: Time to let the kids play

As each NHL team is eliminated from playoff contention -- either mathematically or by losing in the postseason -- we'll take a look at why its quest for the Stanley Cup fell short in 2018-19, along with three keys to its offseason, impact prospects for 2019-20 and a way-too-early prediction on what 2019-20 will hold.

What went wrong

What went wrong? Randy Carlyle and general manager Bob Murray's loyalty to him.

Oh, and a few injuries. But mostly it was a coach whose system produced copious amounts of shot opportunities for his opponents -- and had Anaheim Ducks fans thanking the hockey gods for goalie John Gibson's heroic performances -- while producing little offense for anemic Anaheim.

The Ducks followed a 101-point season with a 21-26-9 record, after which Carlyle was dumped, Murray took over behind the bench himself and the Ducks' play turned around with the season already lost because Murray waited too long to turf his buddy.

But again: Injuries to everyone not named Adam Henrique or Josh Manson also helped derail the season (especially losing the talented Ondrej Kase for all but 30 games).

Keys to the offseason

Find the next coach. Despite the team's improvement, one assumes Murray isn't going to be a modern-day Glen Sather and become coach and general manager of the Ducks. The solution behind the Anaheim bench is likely down on the farm: Dallas Eakins, the former Edmonton Oilers head coach, who has done a masterful job of coaching the AHL San Diego Gulls this season. Eakins has earned his second chance. Most importantly, over the past four years, he has coached many of the young Ducks who will populate the roster in 2019-20.

Find room for the kids. The next generation of Ducks has gotten a look this season: That list includes forwards Sam Steel, Max Jones, Max Comtois, Troy Terry and Daniel Sprong, and defenseman Brendan Guhle. Center Isac Lundestrom, No. 23 overall in 2018 and playing in Sweden, could make an impact. The Ducks have a solid core of players ages 23 to 29, including forwards Jakob Silfverberg, Henrique, Nick Ritchie, Kase and Rickard Rakell, along with defensemen Manson, Cam Fowler and Hampus Lindholm. Ryan Getzlaf is 33 but isn't cooked. How Murray infuses this lineup with youth -- and figures out how to move his veterans -- will define the Ducks next season.

Figure out the future of Ryan Kesler. Corey Perry ($8.625 million through 2021) likely isn't going anywhere with his no-move clause and Murray's loyalty to his fading star. But Kesler's future is murkier. The 34-year-old Selke Trophy winner had major hip surgery after the 2016-17 season, and suffice it to say, we haven't seen vintage Ryan Kesler since. He has played 104 games in the past two seasons, with 22 points and a minus-13 and some of the worst defensive metrics of his storied career.

He is signed through 2022 with a $6.875 million cap hit, with a full no-move clause. He finally hit 1,000 games recently, and that milestone was seen by some as the last one he'll pass as a member of the Ducks. The question is if the overall NHL journey for one of the finest defensive players (and postseason performers) of the past decade could be over, as well.

Impact prospects for 2019-20

Troy Terry, RW, age 21: Terry won't have Calder Trophy eligibility next season, but he has just barely crossed the prospect status threshold. Based on what he did this season in his NHL time, and especially how well he played during his time with San Diego in the AHL, Terry is poised to take a more substantial role in the Ducks' offensive attack. He has shifty puck skills and high-end vision that should allow him to become an asset to the Ducks' more veteran players. The NHL experience Terry gained as a rookie is going to be hugely valuable to propelling him to a brighter 2019-20 season.

Brendan Guhle, D, age 21: Acquired in the Brandon Montour trade, Guhle should be a solid contributor to the D corps next season. He has been getting an opportunity with the Ducks since being acquired and has shown more maturity in his game. He is responsible enough defensively and moves the puck well. His skating is a big separating factor for why he can be a full-timer next season. With the opportunity that is available to him in Anaheim, he should force his way into some decent playing time next season.

Max Jones, LW, age 21: Jones is an intriguing player whom I've often had trouble reading in terms of his overall upside. He is big and athletic and has some solid skill, but I've wondered about his hockey sense and ability to translate his offense to the next level. His play in the AHL this season has quieted those concerns a bit, but there's still work to be done in getting his offensive game to NHL caliber, as he has only two points in 23 games. Jones has some grit and tenacity, which should help him find a role. I'm not sure he'll be a full-timer next season, but Jones should be in the NHL plans for a good portion of next season. If he takes another step offensively, he could be a solid depth-scoring option.

Realistic expectation for 2019-20

When your starting point is Gibson (11.21 goals saved above average), three solid defensemen, three young and in-their-prime forwards and Getzlaf's twilight years, you've got something to work with. It's not outrageous to suggest that the Ducks' mighty tumble this season was due to bad injuries and worse coaching.

With a new voice behind the bench, an improving supporting cast and a reversal of fortunes for some of their veterans -- on top of Gibson's stellar play -- a return to the playoffs is more than a possibility, especially if the draft lottery balls bounce their way.