Radko Gudas Named Anaheim Ducks Captain After Two-Year Vacancy
Gudas becomes the ninth captain in franchise history, bringing veteran leadership to a young team.
- Radko Gudas, a 34-year-old Czech defenseman, has been named the first captain of the Anaheim Ducks since Ryan Getzlaf's retirement in 2022.
- Gudas joined the Ducks as a free agent last year and is the first European captain for the team since Teemu Selanne in 1997-98.
- The Ducks have missed the playoffs for six consecutive seasons, the longest drought in team history.
- General Manager Pat Verbeek and head coach Greg Cronin highlighted Gudas' professional demeanor and leadership qualities as key reasons for his appointment.
- Gudas, who won a gold medal with the Czech Republic at this year's World Championships, will lead a young roster including promising players like Mason McTavish and Leo Carlsson.