The Anaheim Ducks have been looking for a left-winger to play alongside their franchise players in Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry for a while. The suitors included Patrick Maroon, Matt Beleskey, Kyle Palmieri, Jakob Silfverberg and Devante Smith-Pelly.

None stuck. Dustin Penner came closest to remaining on the line.

Perry and Getzlaf may have themselves a permanent mate in the veteran left-winger signed by the Ducks on July 9. Heatley's 28 points with the Minnesota Wild last season aren't impressive, but his resumé shows the ability to play on the top line, which could bring him back to his 100-plus point form.

"Every time we've played him, he's been a dangerous player," head coach Bruce Boudreau told NHL.com. "I think we can try him with Getzlaf and Perry. We tried Dustin Penner there … I think this can work better."

Heatley is confident he'll be able to not only keep up but elevate the play of both Perry and Getzlaf.

"My job is to get in shape and be ready to play with those two guys," Heatley said.

"I know those guys, and I've played with both of them, particularly [Getzlaf]. I love playing with the guy. He's one of the best players in the league, as is Corey Perry."

It's clear Heatley believes he deserves a spot on the line, and knows he'll be coming in with that chance.

"We'll see what Bruce wants to do," he said. "My job is to be ready to go and be ready to get a chance with those two guys."