NHL notebook: Ducks GM rules out ‘rash changes’
The Anaheim Ducks are not in worry mode. Yet.
Despite their 1-7-2 start to the season, Ducks general manager Bob Murray is taking a calm approach to the team’s woes and on Friday addressed speculation circulating about the future of coach Bruce Boudreau.
“I really don’t like commenting on rumours, but I will say this: we were one game away from the (Stanley Cup) final just five months ago,” Murray told the Ducks website. “So while this has been a terrible start, I’m not inclined to make rash changes. I’m going to be patient.
“That said, we are severely under-performing as a group. I can’t recall a time where a vast majority of our players have underachieved simultaneously, and I fully expect a turnaround.”
Boudreau said he appreciated the support from Murray.
“I expect to be (coach),” Boudreau told the Orange County Register. “That means a lot. But at the same time, I agree with him. I think we’re slowly getting better and better. Feeling our way. I expect us to play really good on this homestand.
“I’m fine. All I can do is do what I’ve done, work as hard as I can and that’s it.”
The Ducks have dominated the Western Conference in recent times, claiming the Pacific Division crown over the last three seasons.
But their offensive woes — 10 goals in 10 games — has been one of the main reasons the Ducks sit in the Western Conference’s basement.
PRUST OUT 4-6 WEEKS
A crash into the boards Tuesday night will see Vancouver Canucks forward Brandon Prust miss the next four to six weeks with a left ankle injury, the team announced Friday.
The fourth-line forward collided with Montreal Canadians forward Brian Flynn during the second period in the Canucks’ 5-1 win.
“I hit a rut and just rolled right over my ankle,” Prust told the Vancouver Sun after the game. “But I didn’t hear anything pop. It’s definitely sore but hopefully not too long. I won’t be skating for a few days.”
In nine games this season, Prust has five assists and is a plus-three.
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