“Love going into there” – Prospect Nathan Gaucher has potential to add size, strength to Anaheim Ducks line-up
Nathan Gaucher
Canadian junior ice hockey centre Nathan Gaucher is likely to add a bit more of the size and toughness that has been missing in the Anaheim Ducks roster. Selected in the first round (No. 22) of the 2022 NHL Draft on July 7, Gaucher signed a three-year, entry-level contract on July 28.
The 6-foot-3, 208 pounds Gaucher impressed the Ducks with the way he combines his size with his willingness and determination to win pucks in the most physical areas on the ice, particularly the corners.
“I love going into there,” Gaucher said, as quoted by NHL.com. “I have the shape, I have the physique for that, I have the compete for level, so I know I’m going to bring the puck out. … The thing is, in the NHL it’s another level so you have to get used to it, but I think I’ll be there soon.”
“He’s always talking to me about that first pro camp, making a good first impression, just improving,” Gaucher said. “Just go in with that mindset that you’re going to work and improve and be that guy one day.”
“Gaucher already got man strength”
Anaheim coach Dallas Eakins got his first up-close view of the Longueuil native Gaucher during the development camp, which was held between July 12-16. He looked quite impressed with the youngster and also talked about the lost large swath of their size and toughness since last season.
“When it comes to winning hockey games, some of those high-skilled plays have very little to do with winning,” Eakins said. “Eighty-five per cent of our games are played within five feet of the boards, and those guys that are big and strong and, more importantly, hungry and compete hard, those types of players will win you hockey games.”
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