Anaheim Ducks Player Grades: Mark Fistric
Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
This year the Anaheim Ducks added a lot of new players to their already talented roster. They’ve packed their blue line with strong defensemen like Hampus Linholm and Stephane Robidas, but one of the best hitters on that line is Mark Fistric.
Fistric was an acquisition for the Ducks in August of last year. He was signed to a 1-year, $900,000 contract as a free agent.
It is unclear if he will return to Anaheim for the 2014-15 season, but assuming he does the blue line will be better with him.
Fistric brings an aggressiveness to the defense that has been to the advantage of the team. He and Robidas led in hits for the defensive lines although he suffered injuries that caused him to miss a large amount of games towards the end of the season, it was due to his efforts we were able to get so far.
Regular Season
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Fistric was a new face to Ducks fans this year as he was acquired at the start of the season. Shortly after he started with the team it became clear that this young man was here to play aggressively.
He is not what you would refer to as an “offensive defenseman” as he had no goals, but he helped Anaheim in many other ways.
He does have a high average ice time, but not as high fellow blue liner Cam Fowler.
Fistric only played 34 games this season as he suffered a string of various injuries. Due to this, he may not return with Anaheim next season. The Ducks need strong, dependable offensive defenseman.
His starts are nothing too exciting, but what the stats don’t show you is his solid hit count in checking the other players.
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Regular Season Grade: C
Playoffs
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During this short playoff stint for the Anaheim Ducks, Fistric only played five games. He wasn’t able to stay in every game to show his full potential.
Although his regular season stats weren’t up to par when compared to Hampus Lindholm, he did put forth a solid effort. His ability to stay aggressive and finish checks kept the Ducks afloat for the time that they did.
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Playoff Grade: D
Future
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The future for Fistric is undetermined. Will he stay in Anaheim or will he sign with another team? The Ducks have yet to announce they’re keeping Fistric.
Recently, the Vancouver Canucks are said to have been shopping for him, but this is of course a rumor.
Only time will tell and fans will know soon enough after the Stanley Cup is won, where will Fistric lay his hat. Although he is a solid defenseman, perhaps the Ducks can bring in better talent that will guarantee a cup next season.