NHL.com 30 in 30: Top Prospects for Ducks

By Abbey Mastracco NHL.com Correspondent

NHL.com is providing in-depth prospect analysis for each of its 30 teams throughout August. Today, the Anaheim Ducks.

The Ducks’ prospect pool very closely mirrors the main roster: depth on the blue line and strong up the middle. These themes reflect the values of general manager Bob Murray, who will never pass up a big, strong center or a mobile, puck-moving defenseman.

The only problem seems to be finding room for top, young players with so much depth, especially when it comes to defensemen. A few players will likely further their NHL resumes this season, but training camp will determine whether some will finally contribute consistently.

Here are the Ducks’ top five prospects, according to NHL.com:

1. Shea Theodore, D

How acquired: Selected with No. 26 pick in 2013 NHL Draft

Last season: Anaheim: 19 GP, 3-5-8, San Diego (AHL): 50 GP, 9-28-37

Theodore (6-foot-2, 195 pounds) showed flashes of brilliance last season but ultimately struggled with consistency at the NHL level. Theodore made good use of an Amtrak pass and the recently-completed train station across the street from Honda Center, where he often traveled from San Diego to Anaheim to skate with the Ducks. When he was finally pressed into service on an injury-plagued blue line, he more than held his own, averaging 19:07 of ice time in 19 NHL games.

A smooth-skating offensive defenseman, Theodore, 21, had five points in seven Calder Cup Playoff games with San Diego last season and excels on the power play. The only thing holding him back is a loaded blue line.

Projected NHL arrival: This season

2. Nick Ritchie, LW

How acquired: Selected with No. …

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