Pucks of a Feather
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The Anaheim Ducks Sign Defenseman Andrej Sustr To A One-Year Deal

By Ciara Durant

TAMPA, FL - MARCH 30: Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Andrej Sustr (62) celebrates after scoring a goal in the 2nd period of the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and Tampa Bay Lightning on March 30, 2017, at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL. (Photo by Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - MARCH 30: Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Andrej Sustr (62) celebrates after scoring a goal in the 2nd period of the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and Tampa Bay Lightning on March 30, 2017, at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL. (Photo by Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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TAMPA, FL: Andrej Sustr #62 of the Tampa Bay Lightning skates against the Florida Panthers during the second period at Amalie Arena on March 6, 2018. (Photo by Scott Audette/NHLI via Getty Images) /

Change Can Be Good

While he was in Tampa, one thing that didn’t help Sustr’s case was constantly being overshadowed by the younger, faster talent. Unfortunately, he fell victim to the typical “out with the old, in with the new” mantra. With the game of hockey being in a constant state of evolution, he was passed by others in the Bolts organization.

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Randy Carlyle is big on having a veteran presence on the ice. Last season, the talent available didn’t work in his favor. However, I will give Carlyle the benefit of the doubt. He had one of two options last season: choosing two veterans or two rookies. When given the option, he chose familiarity over the unknown.

Sustr has never know anything but Tampa Bay. He started his career with that team and until now, he hasn’t played for anyone else. We don’t know, nor does Sustr, how he’ll play in a different environment. Carlyle’s coaching style could suit Sustr’s game better and provide him with the opportunity for growth.

With there being a hole to fill in the Ducks roaster, Sustr is a good option for them to have in their arsenal. Sometimes all a player needs is a change of pace and scenery in order to thrive (Derek Grant for example.) Every team wants three solid pairings on the blueline. I hope Sustr can take the Anaheim Ducks one step closer to achieving that goal.

Next: Anaheim Should Jump In On the Erik Karlsson Sweepstakes

“Bargain Bob” seems to have confidence in Sustr’s abilities. He signed the defenseman for a steal, which will serve to help lighten the burden on the Ducks salary cap. However, I think it was very wise of Bob to not make any long-term deals. The fact that he is testing the waters before he takes the plunge to make a big commitment, shows his skills as a GM.

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