After winning the franchise's first Stanley Cup in season 2006-07, the expectations on the Anaheim Ducks coming into the 2007-08 National Hockey League (NHL) season were immense.

The Ducks began their title defense against local rival the Los Angeles Kings in a two game series in London, England.

They did so in a very depleted state, missing Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne, who were both considering whether or not to retire; and, Samuel Pahlsson and J.S. Giguere, who were both injured. All huge losses for the boys from Anaheim.

October 10th saw a landmark occasion for Anaheim, as they raised the Pacific division, Western conference and Stanley Cup title-winner's banners.

Generally, the first portion of the season didn't go to Anaheim's liking, and they were forced into making a few minor trades. The Ducks let go goalie Ilya Bryzgalov, who was picked up by the Phoenix Coyotes.

After a number of months sitting on the sidelines pondering his future, in a press conference prior to a game against the Buffalo Sabres on December 5th, it was announced Niedermayer would be returning.

However, nine days later, a huge event occurred for Anaheim, when team General Manager Brian Burke dealt star winger Andy McDonald to the St. Louis Blues, in exchange for Doug Weight, Michael Birner and a 7th-round draft pick.

Whilst the decision was unpopular with fans, it was forced upon the Ducks due to salary cap issues.

On December 16th, Niedermayer made his long-awaited return, and immediately the team improved on the rink.

With a succession of good performances, most of which were victories, the team suddenly returned to playoff contention.

At the All-Star game, Ryan Getzlaf and Chris Pronger were selected to represent the West, whilst as the game drew closer, Niedermayer and Corey Perry came into the squad as injury replacements.

With four representatives, it was a team record All-Star game representatives in the team's 15-season history.

Further good news ensued on January 28th of this year, as Teemu Selanne also decided to return from premature retirement, signing a one-year deal with the Ducks.

With Selanne in the line-up, the Ducks would win nine of 10 games, and were now huge contenders to not only make the playoffs, but win the Pacific division.

At the trade deadline, the Ducks remained fairly inactive, only acquiring depth players in defenseman Marc-Andre Bergron from the Islanders, and J.S. Aubin from Los Angeles.

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