{"id":262399,"date":"2026-04-11T08:02:08","date_gmt":"2026-04-11T08:02:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/262399\/"},"modified":"2026-04-11T08:02:08","modified_gmt":"2026-04-11T08:02:08","slug":"ducks-show-support-for-their-management","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/262399\/","title":{"rendered":"Ducks Show Support for their Management"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Anaheim Ducks announced a multi-year Pat Verbeek<\/a> contract extension on Wednesday, solidifying leadership within the organization\u2019s hockey operations department. The team also confirmed that Mike Stapleton<\/a> has been named senior vice president and associate general manager, reporting directly to Verbeek. The announcement was made via the club\u2019s official release.<\/p>\n

Credit Image: \u00a9 Peter Joneleit\/Cal Sport Media<\/p>\n

Pat Verbeek Contract Extension: Ducks Extend GM After Organizational Progress<\/p>\n

Verbeek has served as Anaheim\u2019s general manager since February 2022. Since then, he has overseen a significant transition from rebuild to contention. Notably, the Ducks have assembled a strong core of young talent, including players such as Leo Carlsson<\/a>, Cutter Gauthier<\/a>, and Beckett Sennecke<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The @AnaheimDucks<\/a> have signed general manager Pat Verbeek to a multi-year contract. \ud83e\udd86 pic.twitter.com\/JfESxVofLQ<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 NHL (@NHL) April 10, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Furthermore, the team\u2019s on-ice results have reflected that progress. Anaheim improved<\/a> by 21 points in the standings last season and is currently on pace for another 12-point increase. Meanwhile, the Ducks sit in third place in the Pacific Division<\/a> and are positioned to clinch a playoff spot<\/a> by this weekend.<\/p>\n

Ownership emphasized continuity as a key factor in the decision. Moreover, the organization credited Verbeek with building a roster capable of sustained success over the next decade. His experience also adds to that outlook, with Stanley Cup wins both as a player and in a front-office role.<\/p>\n

However, not every move during Verbeek\u2019s tenure so far was universally praised in the moment. The decision to select Leo Carlsson over Adam Fantilli in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft<\/a> drew scrutiny, as did the selection of Beckett Sennecke third overall in 2024<\/a>. Meanwhile, the trade sending Trevor Zegras<\/a> out of Anaheim for Ryan Poehling and a draft pick raised further questions externally.<\/p>\n

That said, many of those decisions have since produced positive results. Carlsson has developed into a cornerstone player, while Sennecke has shown encouraging progression. Additionally, the roster balance created through recent transactions has supported the team\u2019s rise in the standings.<\/p>\n

What the Extension Means for Anaheim<\/p>\n

The Pat Verbeek contract extension provides stability at a critical stage in the Ducks\u2019 competitive window. As the team shifts toward contention, maintaining consistency in decision-making becomes increasingly important. This extension ensures that Anaheim\u2019s current vision remains intact.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, the Ducks\u2019 roster construction reflects a balanced approach between youth and veteran support. That structure allows the team to compete now while continuing to develop internally. As a result, the organization is positioned to sustain its upward trajectory.<\/p>\n

Mike Stapleton Elevated to Associate General Manager<\/p>\n

Alongside the extension, Mike Stapleton has been promoted to senior vice president and associate general manager. The new title reflects an expanded role within the organization, with Stapleton now taking on greater responsibility in day-to-day operations.<\/p>\n

Stapleton has been part of Anaheim\u2019s front office since 2015, serving in scouting and player personnel roles before being named assistant general manager in 2024. Furthermore, his experience spans both management and coaching, including time as a head coach in the Ontario Hockey League.<\/p>\n

He will continue to assist in player acquisition across free agency, trades, and the NHL Draft. Meanwhile, his direct reporting line to Verbeek underscores his importance within the Ducks\u2019 leadership structure as the organization moves forward.<\/p>\n

Main Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

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