Zhai's high praise

Zeng's agility, height, long wingspan and threats on both ends of the floor make him a natural fit for the Ducks' new up-tempo style. Fans will hope he can adopt a similar role to that played by current team captain Zhai Xiaochuan when he was retired NBA All-Star Stephon Marbury's foil during the franchise's run of three championships from 2012-15.

"He's got more talent than me and has started his career higher than where I began," Zhai said of Zeng's potential.

"He's quite aggressive. He's got a lot of energy. I really like him as a young player," added forward Zhai, 29.

"But to be honest, he needs more drills to get used to the competition of this level. We are all on his side to help him grow and live up to his potential. It's on us all to build the Ducks' future together."