Radko Gudas's surprising move to the Anaheim Ducks over Canadian teams like the Maple Leafs, Flames, and Oilers was influenced by multiple factors.
Notably, Gudas expressed disinterest in Canada due to media attention and the country's high taxes for the wealthy, favoring places like California.
In Canada, you also start with taxes at more than fifty percent. You can't say that California is different in this regard. It has thirteen percent higher taxes than Florida
He also cited his preference for Anaheim's role and weather. This decision reflects how financial and non-hockey aspects increasingly sway player choices, potentially impacting player movement to Canada.
When I had the choice between Calgary, Edmonton and a team somewhere warm, Anaheim appealed to me more. But it wasn't about the weather, it was more about the role in the team, what they would want from me, and of course the financial side.