Granlund named 10th captain in Anaheim Ducks history

The Finnish forward takes over leadership duties from Radko Gudas and will wear the C for a Ducks team coming off a second-round playoff run.

The Anaheim Ducks have named Mikael Granlund the 10th captain in franchise history, announcing the move Tuesday. The 34-year-old Finnish forward steps in for Radko Gudas, whom the club dealt to Florida over the summer after the defenseman had spent two seasons wearing the C. Granlund, beginning just his second year in Anaheim after signing a three-year free-agent deal in 2025, will be backed by four alternates: Leo Carlsson, Jackson LaCombe, Troy Terry and Alex Killorn.

Granlund made an immediate impression after arriving, posting 19 goals and 22 assists last season and playing a central part in snapping the Ducks' seven-season run without playoff hockey. He added five goals in the postseason, tying for most on the roster. His leadership resume extends internationally, having captained Finland at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, where the team took bronze, and at two world championships. GM Pat Verbeek called him a natural fit, citing the professionalism, mentorship and quiet intensity he brings to a group with varied personalities.

A 14-year NHL veteran who debuted with Minnesota in January 2013, Granlund has also suited up for Nashville, Pittsburgh, San Jose and Dallas, reaching the 50-point mark six times. Anaheim opens its season Oct. 2 at Vegas before hosting the Panthers on Oct. 4. Expectations are high after last spring's second-round playoff appearance under coach Joel Quenneville, even though the roster lost several notable players, including Gudas, Mason McTavish, Chris Kreider, Jacob Trouba and Olen Zellweger.