Every year, for the 31 NHL teams, “exodus day” brings mixed emotions. It marks the beginning of summer break, a time for rest, relaxation, and precious moments with family. It also signifies the completion of another season at the highest level of the game, fostering a sense of pride and gratitude for the bonds formed with teammates. However, this day is also tinged with disappointment, as many teams fall short of their ultimate goals and miss out on the intense competition of the postseason.
For the Anaheim Ducks, the 2023-24 season was marked by excitement and turbulence. Despite facing challenges such as losing streaks, injuries, and the inevitable struggles of a young team, the Ducks ended the season on a high note, leaving them eager for the next season to begin. In an interview with *AnaheimDucks.com*, several Ducks shared their reflections on the season as a whole, highlighting the team’s strong finish, the impact of the developing young core, and their aspirations for returning to playoff contention. Players acknowledged the mental and physical difficulties they encountered during the season, especially for the older members of the team who are driven by the desire to win.
At the same time, they expressed their pride in mentoring and guiding the younger generation of players. Despite the challenges, the players found positives in their growth and development, recognizing moments where games could have gone differently and acknowledging their improved consistency in playing against competitive teams. As a result, the team’s belief in their abilities strengthened, instilling a sense of optimism for the future. Looking ahead, they are eager to use the summer break to reset and prepare for the upcoming season with renewed enthusiasm and determination.