The Anaheim Ducks revamped their uniforms this season, drawing mixed reactions. However, one thing is clear – the team embraced its origins as Orange County’s sole NHL team and the inspiration behind the 90s Disney movie series “The Mighty Ducks.”
Learn more: The Mighty Ducks Make a Comeback in New Anaheim Orange Rebrand
The team unveiled their new jerseys on social media in June:
Seventeen years after their Stanley Cup win, the Ducks felt the need for a fresh start. Coming off a disappointing 27-50-5 record, second to last in the Western Conference in 2023-24, and no playoff appearances since 2018, the team underwent changes in coaching and management. A rebrand was just what they needed for a positive buzz.
Enter Kenan Thompson. The former child star of the Disney “Mighty Ducks” films, Thompson, now a prominent figure on Saturday Night Live, brought back nostalgic memories in a recent segment on Late Night With Seth Meyers.
Thompson, reminiscing with Meyers, shared how he learned to skate for his role in “D2: The Mighty Ducks” 30 years ago. The movies helped foster a connection between the cast and the NHL due to their authentic on-ice skills.
“People forget, it wasn’t just a movie; we actually learned to skate,” Thompson shared. “We had a great rapport with the NHL. It was real. I can still skate today.”
Thompson surprised Meyers with a new orange Ducks jersey, teasing it as next year’s design and revealing “Tyler” on the back as a tribute to his character Russ Tyler.
In the 2024-25 season, the Ducks will sport a white version of this jersey along with white helmets for away games.
Time will tell if this fresh look brings luck on the ice. Nonetheless, the team gained some off-ice recognition from a true celebrity.
The upcoming NHL season kicks off on Oct. 4 with the New Jersey Devils facing the Buffalo Sabres in Prague, Czech Republic.