Anaheim Ducks choose Mikael Granlund as the 10th captain in team history

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Mikael Granlund has been named the Anaheim Ducks' new captain, marking him as the team's 10th leader in this role. The Finnish forward replaces defenseman Radko Gudas, who was traded to Florida last summer after two seasons leading the club. Granlund, 34, is embarking on his second season with the Ducks after signing a three-year deal as a free agent in 2025.

In his first full season with the team, he contributed 19 goals and 22 assists, playing a pivotal role in ending the Ducks' seven-year playoff drought. He also netted five postseason goals, tying for the team lead. Granlund has been a strong leader both on and off the ice, according to Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek, who praised his professionalism, humility, mentorship, and quiet intensity.

With the Ducks' talented young core expected to improve, Verbeek sees Granlund as a natural fit for the team's leadership. Granlund, who began his NHL career with Minnesota in 2013, has also played for Nashville, Pittsburgh, San Jose, and Dallas, scoring at least 50 points in six different seasons.