Ducks Make Surprise Goaltender Switch for Ottawa Showdown

The Anaheim Ducks have shaken up their goaltending plans ahead of Sunday night’s matchup against the Ottawa Senators. Head coach Joel Quenneville announced that veteran netminder Laurent Brossoit will get the start, handing the reins to the 33‑year‑old in place of the struggling Ville Husso and Lukas Dostal. The decision, first reported by Daily Faceoff’s Derek Lee, comes as the Ducks look to arrest a dip in goaltending performance.

Why the Ducks Chose Laurent Brossoit

Brossoit’s selection signals a blend of experience and reliability. Over his NHL career he has proven himself as a solid backup, logging 141 regular‑season games with a .910 save percentage, a 2.66 goals‑against average (GAA) and six shutouts. His .571 quality‑start rate demonstrates consistency when the team supports him.

The coaching staff also sees veteran leadership in Brossoit, someone who can steady the room during a stretch where the Ducks’ goaltending has been a weak link. With Husso posting an .857 SV% and a 4.12 GAA, and Dostal at .872 SV% with a 3.56 GAA, the need for a stabilizing force was evident.

Brossoit’s Career Stats and Recent Form

Career Highlights: 141 Games, .910 SV%, 2.66 GAA

Since breaking in during the 2014‑15 season, Brossoit has accumulated a respectable résumé:

• Games Played: 141 regular‑season appearances.
• Save Percentage: .910.
• GAA: 2.66.
• Shutouts: 6.
• Quality Starts: .571 (meaning he posted a GAA <3.0 in over half of his starts).

These numbers paint the picture of a dependable backup who can keep games within reach when the offensive line contributes.

One Game with the Sharks: A Brief Glimpse

Brossoit’s most recent NHL action came in a single contest for the San Jose Sharks during the 2025‑26 season. Facing the Ottawa Senators, he surrendered six goals, finishing with a .783 save percentage. While that performance is an outlier, it serves as a reminder that a single game does not define a goaltender’s career.

Projected Lines and Pairings vs. Senators

The lineup projections are based on the lines and pairings observed at Anaheim’s practice on October 31, as shared by Derek Lee. Therefore, they could shift if Quenneville makes any last‑minute adjustments.

Offensive Chambers

• First Line: Leo Carlsson – Alex Killorn – Judd Caulfield. Carlsson is off to a strong start with 18 points in 13 games, putting him on an 84‑game pace for over a point per contest.
• Second Line: Cutter Gauthier – Mikael Granlund – Beckett Sennecke. Sennecke’s eight goals come with a 25.8 % shooting rate, while Gauthier adds nine points and four goals.
• Third Line: Tim Washe – A.J. Greer – Sam Colangelo. Washe has been a versatile factor, posting six points, three goals, 41 hits and winning 125 faceoffs.
• Fourth Line: Roger McQueen – Jeff Malott – Nikita Nesterenko. McQueen scored his first NHL goal in the recent 7‑6 loss to Buffalo.

Defensive Pairings

• Top Pair: Jackson LaCombe – Drew Helleson (Helleson will log his seventh start if the projection holds).
• Second Pair: Pavel Mintyukov – Noah Warren.
• Third Pair: Travis Mitchell – Tristan Luneau. Luneau has seven points in 13 games and appears to be heating up.

What the Ducks Need to Stabilize Their Net

Even with Brossoit’s veteran presence, the Ducks cannot rely solely on goaltending. The team has been scoring enough, but the backend has been porous. If the offensive line can generate consistent pressure, Brossoit will have the freedom to settle into his rhythm rather than being thrown off by early deficits.

The coaching staff will also need to ensure the defensive pairings stay structured, especially with Helleson’s limited experience on the top pairing. Luneau’s offensive contributions can help balance the third pair, but defensive diligence remains critical.

Key Takeaways Heading Into Sunday Night

• Goalie shake‑up: Brossoit’s start marks a strategic pivot, aiming to bring stability after a rough stretch from Husso and Dostal.
• Veteran spark: Brossoit’s career resume suggests he can handle the workload, especially if the Ducks provide offensive support.
• Line confidence: The projected lines place top scorers like Carlsson and Gauthier on the top two units, aiming to generate early offense.
• Defensive focus: The defensive pairings, particularly Helleson’s first start, will be a key area to monitor.
• Game plan: The Ducks must balance attacking the Senators’ net while tightening up defensively to avoid a repeat of recent 6‑goal allowances.

Ultimately, the surprise call to Brossoit adds a layer of veteran composure to a unit that has been searching for consistency. If the Ducks can pair that netmind‑set with the offensive depth highlighted in the projected lines, they’ll enter the contest with a solid chance to snap their current skid.

This article was originally reported on HEAVY. The post “Anaheim Ducks Make Surprise Goalie Call With Uncomfortable Senators Connection” appeared first on HEAVY.

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