Explore potential trade destinations for Cam Fowler as the Anaheim Ducks consider moving their veteran defenceman to a contender.
Cam Fowler has been a cornerstone of the Anaheim Ducks‘ blue line since being drafted 12th overall in 2010. The smooth-skating defenseman has provided stability, leadership, and offensive contributions for over a decade and is only 11 games away from 1,0000 in his NHL career (all with Anaheim). However, as the Ducks find themselves in a rebuild, Fowler’s name has surfaced in trade rumors as a potential candidate to move to a contender. He is currently the third-ranked player on The Athletics trade board and has a $6.5 million AAV cap hit for the next two seasons. Hockey insiders, such as Elliotte Friedman, have reported Fowler’s name mentioned in trade talks. Apparently, the Ducks were trying to include him in the Jacob Trouba deal.
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With his experience, poise, and ability to log heavy minutes, Fowler could be a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster their defensive corps with a solid two-way defenceman and go on a championship run. Below, we explore three potential trade destinations for Cam Fowler, along with each team’s salary cap limitations.
Ducks Defenceman Trade Destinations
Toronto Maple Leafs
Toronto’s high-octane offence is well-documented, but the team has struggled to find consistency on defence. Fowler’s calm presence and two-way ability would provide the Maple Leafs with a reliable top-four. His playoff experience, having been to the conference finals twice, could also prove invaluable for a team aiming to make a deep postseason run. With Toronto’s cap constraints, fitting Fowler’s $6.5 million AAV might require some creativity. The Ducks would likely need to retain the maximum allowed 50% of his salary to facilitate a deal. Even after the Trouba trade, the Ducks have over $21 million in cap space, making retention possible.
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers are in win-now mode with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl in their primes. They were also only one win away from winning the Stanley Cup last spring. However, defensive struggles have hindered their championship aspirations. Adding Fowler would address Edmonton’s need for a steady presence on the back end. His ability to skate and make smart decisions under pressure aligns well with the Oilers’ fast-paced style. Fowler could also help quarterback the second power play unit when needed, giving the Oilers another weapon in their arsenal. Evan Bouchard has the first power play unit job locked down for now. Fowler would also be able to play with former teammates Corey Perry, Adam Henrique, and Sam Carrick in Edmonton. Here again, the Ducks would need to utilize their cap situation and likely retain all $3.25 million.
Colorado Avalanche
As one of the NHL’s premier contenders, the Colorado Avalanche have a strong core built around Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Mikko Rantanen. While their roster is already formidable, adding Cam Fowler could further solidify their defence as they aim for another Stanley Cup. The Avalanche give up the third most goals in the NHL, a trend that cannot continue if they want to win a championship. Fowler’s ability to log big minutes and contribute offensively would make him an ideal second-pairing option behind Makar and Devon Toews. Fowler could also reunite with his former teammate Josh Manson. His playoff experience and calm presence under pressure align perfectly with the Avalanche’s championship aspirations. Additionally, Fowler’s puck-moving ability would mesh seamlessly with Colorado’s fast-paced transition system. The Avalanche have around $3 million in cap space, making this trade partnership the most financially viable of the three.
End of an Era for Fowler
It could be the end of an era for Ducks defenceman Cam Fowler. While trading Fowler would mark the end of an era for the Ducks, it could be a mutually beneficial move. Fowler’s four-team trade list gives him control over his destination, but with several contenders potentially interested, Fowler is unlikely to block a trade to one of them. Those teams will also gain a veteran defenceman for two potential postseason runs, twice what teams normally get in this situation. This will also allow the Ducks to gain valuable assets for their rebuild – one final assist from Fowler.
For Ducks fans, the thought of Fowler leaving is bittersweet. He has been a constant presence through highs and lows, embodying professionalism and dedication both on and off the ice. Watching him skate in a different jersey would undoubtedly be tough, but his contributions to Anaheim’s legacy will forever be cherished. Whether he stays or goes, Fowler’s impact on the Ducks and their fans will remain immeasurable.
Main Photo: Alex Gallardo-Imagn Images
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