The Anaheim Ducks made a move this morning that is sending shock waves through Ducks Nation, trading Andrew Cogliano to the Dallas Stars in exchange for Devin Shore.
When Bob Murray broke his silence, although he didn’t address it directly, he inferred that change was coming to the Anaheim Ducks. Many of us, including myself, wasn’t sure whether to take him at his word or not.
He has been preaching change since he acquired Daniel Sprong in early December and he hasn’t made any changes since then. However, this morning he made a move that has ruffled a lot of feathers.
While the news that Andrew Cogliano is headed to Dallas is upsetting, I am excited for him. I believe that Dallas will cater to him as a player more adequately that the Anaheim Ducks could. His speed and veteran experience will be a huge asset to the Stars.
With the departure of Cogliano, a new face will be making his debut on the Anaheim Ducks roster tomorrow night in Detroit. The Dallas Stars have parted with 24-year-old Devin Shore, their 2nd round pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Shore, like Cogliano, has seen a drop in production and ice time this season. In 42 games, he currently has 17 points (5g, 12a.) While this is not a huge upgrade from Cogliano, Shore’s youthful energy and creativity could be what the Ducks need to spark their team.
"“I like the way he creates. I like when he has the puck he creates things. We need a lot more of that. It’s a change and we’re getting younger. That’s just what we have to do right now.” -Bob Murray, Executive Vice President/General Manager of the Anaheim Ducks"
While Shore won’t be jumping into a spot beside Getzlaf on the top line anytime soon (although at this point nothing surprises me anymore), he has the capability to be a vital force for the Anaheim Ducks in the bottom six.
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He is also a versatile player, with the ability to play both center or a position on the wing. Shore is also said to be a defensive entity, especially on the penalty kill, much like Andrew Cogliano. However, he comes at a cheaper price, which adds some cap relief.
In many ways, Devin Shore seems like a very similar player to Cogliano. The slight difference is that he has more of an offensive bend to his game and he adds the element of youth.
One thing that I personally admire about him is his ability to steer clear of taking penalties. The Ducks could certainly use more players who are apt to stray away from the sin bin. They’ve taken an inordinate amount of penalties this season and anything to relieve the pressure of giving the opposing team a one-man advantage is a step in the right direction.
We will miss Andrew Cogliano, that much is certain. However, I am looking forward to what Devin Shore could bring to the Anaheim Ducks. It is going to be very interesting to see what position Randy Carlyle puts him in.
Bob Murray’s message has been heard loud and clear and I hope the rest of the team takes it to heart. On a team that is not being productive, no one is safe. Although we’d like for a coaching change to take place, we all know that isn’t going to happen.
While we wait, it’s time for the team to hold themselves to higher expectations and step it up a notch.
What are your thoughts on the Shore/Cogliano trade? Let us know by leaving a comment down below or finding us on Facebook and Twitter.