Which Anaheim prospect should you target next year?
- David Buckley
- Apr 14
- 8 min read
The Anaheim Ducks’ Defense Core: Fantasy Implications, Ice Time Dynamics, Raw Ability, and Coaching Impact on Jackson LaCombe, Pavel Mintyukov, and Olen Zellweger.
The Anaheim Ducks’ rebuild is gaining momentum, and their young defensive core, Jackson LaCombe, Pavel Mintyukov, and Olen Zellweger, is central to their future. These blueliners bring unique skills, with distinct ice time, raw talent, and fantasy hockey potential. This article explores their 2024-25 performance, fantasy implications, and long-term outlook, while delving into their ice time dynamics, raw abilities, and how a coaching change could alter their usage.
Jackson LaCombe: The Dependable Two-Way Anchor
2024-25 Performance and Ice Time
At 24, Jackson LaCombe has solidified his role as Anaheim’s top defenseman under coach Greg Cronin. Paired with Radko Gudas on the first pairing, LaCombe averages 20 to 22 minutes per game, including significant even-strength time, penalty-kill duties, and a lock on the first power-play unit (PP1). His roughly 35 points in 61 games (projected for 40 to 45 points over a full season) and a plus-4 rating reflect his ability to thrive on a rebuilding team. LaCombe’s ice time is the highest among the trio, often exceeding 23 minutes in close games, signaling Cronin’s trust in his all-situations reliability.
Raw Ability
LaCombe’s strengths lie in his skating, hockey IQ, and positional soundness. His fluid stride allows him to transition the puck effectively, while his 6’2” frame helps him box out opponents without relying on heavy physicality. Offensively, he’s not a highlight-reel creator but excels at making smart first passes and joining the rush selectively. His shot isn’t elite, but his vision on the power play generates consistent assists. Defensively, he’s rarely caught out of position, making him a coaches’ favorite for high-leverage minutes.
In the video you can see Jackson finishing on a drive to the net.
Fantasy Implications
LaCombe’s heavy ice time and PP1 role make him the most fantasy-relevant Duck defenseman. His 40 to 45-point pace, combined with 1 to 2 shots and 1 to 1.5 blocks per game, offers a strong floor for a No. 3 or No. 4 fantasy defenseman. His plus-minus holds up better than expected due to his defensive acumen. In dynasty leagues, LaCombe’s youth and entrenched role ensure long-term value, though his ceiling (likely 50 to 55 points) is slightly lower than his peers due to a less dynamic offensive profile.
Future Outlook and Coaching Impact
LaCombe’s game is tailor-made for a structured system, which Cronin’s defensive emphasis suits perfectly. His ice time could climb to 23 to 24 minutes as he matures, especially if veterans like Gudas or Jacob Trouba are phased out. If a new coach, say, one with a more offensive philosophy like Todd McLellan, takes over, LaCombe’s usage might shift slightly. He could see even more power-play time or be encouraged to take offensive risks, potentially boosting his point totals to the 55-point range. However, his defensive reliability ensures he’d remain a top-pairing staple regardless of scheme, as coaches value his low-maintenance style.
Pavel Mintyukov: The Dynamic Risk-Taker
2024-25 Performance and Ice Time
Pavel Mintyukov, 21, has carved out a regular role on the second or third pairing, often alongside Drew Helleson or Trouba, averaging 18 to 20 minutes per game. The trade of Brian Dumoulin cleared a path for more consistent minutes, and Mintyukov has responded with 15 to 20 points in 60 games, including a recent assist in a 4-1 win over the Islanders. He sees sporadic time on the second power-play unit (PP2), competing with Zellweger, but his ice time spikes to 21 to 22 minutes when injuries or matchups favor his offensive spark. Cronin has been cautious with Mintyukov’s deployment, occasionally reducing his minutes in defensive-zone-heavy games due to inconsistency.
Raw Ability
Mintyukov’s raw talent screams upside. His skating is explosive, allowing him to lead rushes and evade forecheckers with ease. His 6’1” frame and willingness to engage physically (averaging 1 to 2 hits per game) add an edge, though his defensive reads can be erratic. Offensively, he’s a playmaker with soft hands and a knack for threading passes through seams. His shot is above average, but he prefers creating over shooting. Defensively, his aggressive style leads to turnovers, which limits his trust from Cronin in high-stakes situations.
In the video you can see Pavel lugging the pick into the zone and attacking the net as a defensman.
Fantasy Implications
Mintyukov’s fantasy value hinges on his offensive flair, but his inconsistent role makes him a riskier pick than LaCombe. His 25 to 30-point projection suits deep leagues, where his shots (1.5 to 2 per game), hits, and occasional power-play points add value. His plus-minus can suffer due to defensive miscues, so multi-category leagues are his best fit. In dynasty formats, Mintyukov’s high ceiling makes him a prime stash, as a larger role could see him leap to 40-plus points as early as next season.
Future Outlook and Coaching Impact
Mintyukov’s trajectory depends on refining his defensive game to earn more ice time. Under Cronin, his minutes are capped unless he proves reliable in his own end, but he’s trending toward a steady 20-minute role. A coaching change could be a game-changer. An offensive-minded coach might unleash Mintyukov, giving him PP1 duties and encouraging his rushes, potentially elevating him to a 50 to 60-point defenseman in 2 to 3 years. Conversely, a defense-first coach could limit his leash, keeping him on the second pairing and stifling his fantasy upside. His raw talent suggests he’ll eventually force his way into a top-four role, but patience is key.
Olen Zellweger: The Pint-Sized Playmaker
2024-25 Performance and Ice Time
Olen Zellweger, 21, is navigating his first full NHL season with flashes of brilliance, averaging 16 to 18 minutes per game on the third pairing or alongside Oliver Kylington. His 14 points in 50 games, including a dazzling goal against the Rangers, highlight his offensive instincts. Zellweger competes with Mintyukov for PP2 time, which boosts his minutes to 19 to 20 in games where he’s featured on the man-advantage. However, his 5’9”, 180-pound frame has led to occasional healthy scratches when Cronin opts for size against physical opponents, keeping his ice time the lowest of the trio.
In the video you can see Olen's aggressiveness and above average wrist shot from an off angle.
Raw Ability
Zellweger’s skating is his calling card, elite agility and edgework that make him a puck-moving wizard. His vision and passing rival top offensive defensemen, and his junior dominance (CHL Defenseman of the Year) showcases his ability to control play. His shot is deceptive, though he leans toward playmaking. Defensively, his size is a clear limitation; he struggles to clear the net and can be overpowered on the boards, though his quickness helps him recover. His raw offensive talent is comparable to Mintyukov’s, but his smaller stature demands near-perfect execution to thrive.
Fantasy Implications
Zellweger’s limited ice time and scratches make him a fringe fantasy option in standard leagues, with a 20 to 25-point pace best suited for deep formats. His power-play contributions and 1 to 1.5 shots per game offer upside, but his minus-5 rating reflects Anaheim’s struggles and his defensive challenges. Dynasty managers should covet Zellweger for his potential to become a power-play specialist, potentially hitting 45 to 55 points in his prime. Patience is required, as his role is still developing.
Future Outlook and Coaching Impact
Zellweger’s future hinges on overcoming his size-related limitations and securing a larger role. Cronin’s preference for physicality has capped his minutes, and his skill set may be seen as redundant in a system favoring bigger, shutdown defensemen, potentially limiting his fantasy upside in Anaheim. A coaching change could dramatically alter his outlook. A puck-possession or power-play-heavy coach might prioritize Zellweger’s skating and vision, handing him PP1 duties and 20-plus minutes, unlocking 50-point potential by 2026-27. However, a gritty, defense-first coach could marginalize him, relegating him to a third-pairing role unless he adds strength. His raw ability suggests he’ll carve out a niche, likely as a second-pairing, power-play quarterback, but his fit in Anaheim’s current system raises questions.
Comparative Analysis
Player: Jackson LaCombe
Age: 24
2024-25 Points (Est.): ~40 to 45
Ice Time (Avg.): 20 to 22 min
Role: Top pairing, PP1
Fantasy Ceiling: 50 to 55 pts
Key Raw Strengths: Skating, IQ, reliability
Key Weaknesses: Limited offensive flash
Player: Pavel Mintyukov
Age: 21
2024-25 Points (Est.): ~25 to 30
Ice Time (Avg.): 18 to 20 min
Role: 2nd/3rd pairing, PP2
Fantasy Ceiling: 50 to 60 pts
Key Raw Strengths: Explosive skating, playmaking
Key Weaknesses: Defensive inconsistency
Player: Olen Zellweger
Age: 21
2024-25 Points (Est.): ~20 to 25
Ice Time (Avg.): 16 to 18 min
Role: 3rd pairing, PP2
Fantasy Ceiling: 45 to 55 pts
Key Raw Strengths: Elite skating, vision
Key Weaknesses: Size, defensive physicality
Ice Time Dynamics
LaCombe benefits from Cronin’s trust, logging top-pairing and all-situations minutes. His ice time is insulated unless injuries or a drastic system change occur.
Mintyukov is climbing the depth chart, with recent games pushing him toward 20 minutes. His time could dip if defensive mistakes persist but is trending upward post-Dumoulin trade.
Zellweger lags due to his size and scratches, but his PP2 role offers bursts of higher minutes. He’s the most vulnerable to losing ice time against physical teams, and Cronin’s preference for bigger defensemen may cap his role.
Raw Ability Comparison
Skating: Zellweger’s agility edges out Mintyukov’s explosiveness, with LaCombe’s smooth stride a close third.
Offense: Mintyukov and Zellweger are neck-and-neck for creativity, with Mintyukov’s shot giving him a slight edge. LaCombe is safer but less dynamic.
Defense: LaCombe is far ahead in reliability, followed by Mintyukov’s potential (if inconsistent). Zellweger’s size limits him most.
Ceiling: Mintyukov’s blend of size and skill gives him the highest peak, followed by Zellweger’s offensive wizardry and LaCombe’s well-rounded game.
Fantasy Rankings (2024-25)
1. Jackson LaCombe: Heavy minutes and PP1 make him the clear No. 1.
2. Pavel Mintyukov: More ice time and physicality give him the edge over Zellweger.
3. Olen Zellweger: Limited minutes and a potentially redundant skill set hold him back, but his upside remains significant.
Long-Term Fantasy Rankings
1. Pavel Mintyukov: His raw talent and size suggest the highest ceiling.
2. Jackson LaCombe: A safer bet but slightly lower offensive peak.
3. . Olen Zellweger: A close second if he overcomes size concerns and secures PP1, though his fit in Anaheim’s system is uncertain.
Coaching Change Scenarios
Offensive Coach : Mintyukov and Zellweger could see their ice time and power-play roles expand, potentially surpassing LaCombe in points. LaCombe would still log heavy minutes but might lose some offensive freedom.
Defensive Coach : LaCombe’s reliability would keep him atop the depth chart, while Mintyukov and Zellweger might face reduced minutes unless they tighten up defensively. Zellweger’s size could be a particular liability.
The Ducks’ Defensive Future
Anaheim’s blue line is a work in progress, but LaCombe, Mintyukov, and Zellweger form a versatile trio with complementary strengths. LaCombe’s steady presence (20 to 22 minutes) provides a foundation, Mintyukov’s dynamic rushes (18 to 20 minutes) add flair, and Zellweger’s puck-moving brilliance (16 to 18 minutes) offers upside, though his role may be constrained by Cronin’s preferences. The trade of Dumoulin and acquisition of Trouba signal a focus on youth, with Trouba mentoring rather than stealing minutes. Prospects like Stian Solberg in the AHL add depth, but these three are the core.
By 2027-28, the Ducks could boast a top pairing of LaCombe and Mintyukov, with Zellweger running the power play and anchoring a second unit if he secures a larger role. Their ice time will grow as veterans cycle out, assuming they develop as projected. A coaching change could accelerate or hinder their progress, particularly for Zellweger, whose skill set may not fully align with Anaheim’s current direction.
Fantasy Takeaway
Immediate Impact: LaCombe is a must-roster for his minutes and production. Mintyukov is a deep-league add, while Zellweger is a stash for patient managers due to his uncertain role.
Dynasty Stashes: Mintyukov leads for his ceiling, followed by Zellweger’s offensive flair (if he fits Anaheim’s system) and LaCombe’s consistency.
Coaching Watch: Monitor Cronin’s tenure. A new coach could unlock Mintyukov and Zellweger’s ice time or cement LaCombe’s dominance.
Ice Time Upside: LaCombe is maxed out unless PP1 expands; Mintyukov could hit 22 minutes with consistency; Zellweger needs a PP1 role to crack 20, but Cronin’s preference for bigger shutdown defensemen may limit his fantasy upside in Anaheim.
In conclusion, the Ducks’ defensive core blends LaCombe’s dependability, Mintyukov’s explosiveness, and Zellweger’s creativity. Their ice time reflects their current roles, but their raw talents hint at bigger minutes ahead. A coaching shift could reshape their usage, especially for Zellweger, whose fantasy potential may be capped in Anaheim’s system, making them a fascinating group to track for both Ducks fans and fantasy managers. Which defensman is your favorite? Who would you have on your fantasy team?
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