Joel Quennville Boosts Ducks’ Success, Leads Jack Adams Favorites
The Anaheim Ducks have made significant strides early in the 2025-26 NHL season under new head coach Joel Quenneville. Appointed on May 8, 2025, Quenneville replaced Greg Cronin after the team showed only moderate progress in Cronin’s two seasons, largely attributed to standout goaltending rather than overall team performance. Quenneville, renowned as the second-winningest coach in NHL history, was chosen to elevate the Ducks’ potential and drive them towards playoff contention.
Season Overview
As of mid-November, the Ducks hold an impressive record of 11 wins, 3 losses, and 1 overtime loss. They currently lead the Pacific Division and rank second overall in the NHL standings. Their success includes a league-high seven-game winning streak, during which they are averaging 4.13 goals per game, the highest in the league.
- Joal Quenneville: Head coach since May 2025.
- Record: 11-3-1 as of November.
- Goals Per Game: 4.13, leading the NHL.
- Winning Streak: Seven consecutive victories.
Contributions from Players
The Ducks’ lineup features a blend of young talent and experienced players. Notable contributions have come from:
- Young Players: Cutter Gauthier, Mason McTavish, Beckett Sennecke.
- Veterans: Jacob Trouba, Chris Kreider, Troy Terry.
- Emerging Star: Leo Carlsson, a candidate for the Hart Trophy.
Quenneville’s Impact and Coaching Style
Quenneville has already shown a noteworthy impact on the team’s culture and performance. His coaching staff includes Jay Woodcroft, focusing on forwards and the power play, and Ryan McGill, who oversees defense and the penalty kill. The team now emphasizes a more fluid and creative style of play, allowing players to learn from mistakes rather than penalizing them for early errors.
Quenneville’s coaching philosophy prioritizes a conducive environment for young players. This approach helps nurture their development, as illustrated by the positive trajectory of rookie Beckett Sennecke. With his extended playtime, Sennecke has started gaining confidence and dictating play effectively.
Leadership in Offensive and Defensive Strategies
Quenneville has implemented significant changes in gameplay strategy, focusing on speed and puck possession. This new system encourages players to make instinctive decisions during play rather than adhering strictly to predefined roles. The results are evident in several areas:
- Offense: The Ducks have shifted from a chaotic to a more structured offensive approach, leading to better scoring opportunities.
- Defense: The change from a man-to-man defensive system to a pressure-zone coverage has improved the Ducks’ ability to counterattack.
Jack Adams Award Consideration
Quenneville has emerged as a frontrunner for the Jack Adams Award, reflecting his success in revitalizing the Ducks. His initial odds of +700 have improved significantly as the team continues to perform exceptionally well. Currently, he is the favorite, ahead of other competitors such as Martin St. Louis and Andre Tourigny.
Future Prospects
The Anaheim Ducks aim to maintain their early momentum as they strive for a playoff position in the 2025-26 NHL season. The combination of Quenneville’s coaching, the emergence of young talent, and a renewed team culture sets a promising path forward.
