Send us a text

A week like this doesn’t just hand us headlines; it tests what we believe about two very different SoCal trajectories. We kick off with the Kings’ strange run of banking points without regulation wins and why that stat can hide bigger issues, from penalty trouble to shot suppression. Then we pivot to Anaheim’s surge: a faster, cleaner transition game powered by Leo Carlson’s playmaking, Troy Terry’s finishing touch, and Mason McTavish’s bully-in-traffic mindset. Mix in the emotions of John Gibson’s return and a shootout masterclass in Florida, and you’ve got a fascinating snapshot of where the Ducks are going.

We also zoom out to the wider NHL. Milestones matter—Kucherov at 1,000, Hedman at 800, and Crosby’s march to 1,700—because they frame the standard stars must chase. Meanwhile, long-term contracts for Thomas Harley, Logan Cooley, and Martin Necas tell the real cap-era story: smart teams lock core skill for eight years and build around it. We debate the Frozen Frenzy concept too and make the case for a staggered, all-day slate that actually grows the pie for fans, fantasy nerds, and casual viewers.

Game recaps bring it all home. Ducks-Lightning and Ducks-Panthers show how a sturdy goalie and opportunistic special teams can tilt tight margins. Kings-Predators and Kings-Sharks reveal the tension between LA’s offensive depth and their tendency to sit in the box and bleed shots. Still, there are bright lights: Brant Clark’s confidence, Alex Turcotte’s touches, and yes, Corey Perry’s net-front edge sparking real offense in LA. We end with bold predictions, a standings health check, and a few surprises that might not be flukes.

If you’re here for insight, laughs, and honest takes on what’s real vs. early-season noise, you’re in the right spot. Hit follow, share with a fellow hockey fan, and drop your hot take or favorite Halloween candy in the comments. Want more episodes like this? Subscribe and leave a quick review—it helps more fans find the show.

Support the show

https://linktr.ee/royallyquacked

https://linktr.ee/ESENetwork

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/MEx82G9w

Iron+Steel Threads: Use code RQ10 to save 10% on your order.
https://ironsteelthreads.com/?ref=rq

Use Promo Code: RQ10 for 10 % off your order.
Dubby - Clean Energy To Help You Be Better – Dubby Energy

Use code ROYALLYQUACKED $20 off your first SeatGeek order:
https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek

Podcast Socials:
Instagram: @royallyquacked
Twitter: @RoyallyQuacked
TikTok: RoyallyQuacked

Our Socials:
Cody Spink
Instagram: @spinko1221
Twitter: @spinko1221

Gary Spink
Instagram: @garyspink21