Can the Ducks Build a Cup Contender Around an $18M Anchor?

The Anaheim Ducks face a fundamental question about their future: can they construct a Stanley Cup contender while committing $18 million annually to one player? This is the kind of salary cap math that keeps GMs awake at night, especially when you're trying to build depth around a massive commitment. The Ducks' front office will need to be surgical with every remaining dollar if they want to turn this into a legitimate championship roster.