New to the Flock: Evaluating the Ducks’ Offseason Additions
By Jason Siders
Jan 4, 2014; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Clayton Stoner (4) celebrates a goal scored by defenseman Ryan Suter (20) during the third period against the Washington Capitals at Xcel Energy Center. The Wild defeated the Capitals 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Clayton Stoner, D #3
Easily the most controversial off-season acquisition, Clayton Stoner was signed by the Ducks hours into the free agency period on July 1st. Stoner enters his fourth NHL season, after spending three seasons in Minnesota.
While in Minnesota, Stoner typically found himself either on the third pairing or out of the lineup. As a defensive defenseman, Stoner didn’t put up many points, but had mediocre possession numbers, and was pegged by many Wild fans as being a defensive liability.
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Stoner stepped up his game in the 2013-14 playoffs. In 13 games, he posted a 53.7% CF% in sheltered third-pairing minutes and became known by Avalanche and Blackhawks fans for the physical way he played.
His elevated play during the playoff run captured the attention of Ducks GM Bob Murray, and ultimately led to his signing, according to an interview with Travis Rodgers.
Stoner’s playing time, and who he plays with will largely determine his success here in Anaheim. He may find himself in the lineup occasionally against more physical clubs like the Los Angeles Kings or the Boston Bruins.
Best-Case Scenario: Stoner finds himself playing the best hockey of career. He keeps up his incredible possession numbers from the 2013-14 playoffs, becomes a reliable third pairing option to replace Bryan Allen and spends considerable time on the penalty kill.
Worst-Case Scenario: Stoner continues his current form and is occasionally inserted into the lineup against more physical teams, while smaller defensemen like Sami Vatanen are scratched. However, he spends the majority of his season in the press box.
The Verdict: Clayton Stoner may or may not make an impact for the Ducks this season. If he can replicate his strong play against Chicago in the playoffs this upcoming season, he will prove to be a valuable addition to the Ducks’ defensive depth. If he doesn’t, we can trust Coach Bruce Boudreau to manage his playing time accordingly.