It Appears That Ryan Kesler Is Part Of Anaheim’s Immediate Future
According to Orange County Register, Kelser’s deal is worth around $41 million. However, Kesler had one year left on his previous contract. In the final year of his previous contract, Kesler will earn $5 million.
Acquired from the Vancouver Canucks last season, Anaheim Ducks big man Ryan Kesler will remain in Orange County for at least six more years.
In his time with the Ducks so far, Kesler has scored 20 goals and logged in 27 assists in regular season play, adding an additional 13 points in the postseason.
Some people think this size of a contract will be a huge risk for the Ducks down the road.
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His new extension contract will expire at the age of 37 and many players in the past have had less productive seasons after signing a blockbuster deal.
Many believe that Kesler is headed down the same road since this contract will extend into the winding years of his prime.
His numbers have already dropped over the past four seasons since the 2005-06 season.
“This group is not satisfied until we win a Cup”, Kesler said, “We’re close. Now we have to go out there and do it.” Kelser was one of many players disappointed by yet again another playoff elimination by the Chicago Blackhawks.
“I think we need a killer instinct in Game 6,” Kesler told Orange County Register.
“We didn’t have it… We could sulk about it or we could learn from it. It proved to me the owners want to win.”
Kesler was a huge asset in Anaheim last season as he proved that he can play as a two way player. His size and tenacity on defense helped the Ducks win a third straight Pacific Division title.
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With the new contract, the Ducks have about $23.75 million in cap space tied into their superstars; Kesler, Corey Perry, and Ryan Getzlaf.
Kelser’s reckless style of play has impressed Ducks fans so far, however, with his new contract extension, many fear his high level of play will fade out.
The Ducks have proved that they have a team deep enough to push through the playoffs and Kesler was one of the top contributors in last years playoff run.
With him, Perry, and Getzlaf leading the pack, the Ducks are expected to have another solid season and make another push for a fourth straight Pacific Division title.
Ducks GM Bob Murray told the LA Times back in April, “This team is not built to play talent-and skill wise. It’s a hard-nosed team. We have to play inside other’s nets and play hard hockey. Ryan Kesler does that every night, he’s a great example.”
Kesler has become one of the faces of the franchise and a fan favorite.
Kesler can be that contributor that can help bring a second Stanley Cup to Anaheim.
Anaheim is ready to pull out all the stops.
“This isn’t my last contract”, Kesler said, “I want another one after this. I won’t be done.”
This indicates that Kesler is enjoying his time here as a Duck and really wants to help this team succeed.