The Anaheim Ducks have made a significant move to strengthen their defense by acquiring defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin in a trade with the Buffalo Sabres. This trade, which took place on Friday night, saw the Ducks send a fourth-round draft choice in 2025 to Buffalo. The pick was originally acquired from the Minnesota Wild in a trade that sent John Klingberg to the Wild last March.
A Proven NHL Veteran
Ilya Lyubushkin, a 29-year-old defenseman, brings five years of NHL experience to the Anaheim Ducks. His North American career began in 2018 with the Arizona Coyotes. He was then traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in February 2022 before signing a two-year, $5.5 million deal with Buffalo in July 2022.
The Ducks’ General Manager, Pat Verbeek, expressed his enthusiasm for the addition of Lyubushkin to the team’s blueline. Verbeek stated, “We are excited to add Ilya to our blueline as we targeted another defenseman for the right side this offseason. He is a big, physical, hard-nosed player that can kill penalties and will make us harder to play against.”
Lyubushkin’s performance last season with the Buffalo Sabres showcased his value as a defenseman. In 68 games, he recorded 14 points, proving his ability to contribute offensively while fulfilling his defensive responsibilities. He led the Sabres’ defensemen in hits and blocked shots per 60 minutes of play, demonstrating his physical presence and commitment to protecting the net. Additionally, he played a crucial role as a penalty-killer, further showcasing his versatility and importance to the team.
Building a Strong Defensive Line
The acquisition of Ilya Lyubushkin is part of the Anaheim Ducks’ ongoing effort to revamp their defense. Earlier in the summer, they signed defensemen Radko Gudas and Robert Hägg, aiming to strengthen a blue line that struggled last season. The Ducks’ performance has fallen short in recent years, as they have failed to make the playoffs for a franchise-record five consecutive seasons. With these additions to their defensive core, the Ducks are positioning themselves for a more competitive and successful future.
The Anaheim Ducks have taken a significant step towards rebuilding their defense with the acquisition of Ilya Lyubushkin. His experience, physicality, and defensive prowess make him a valuable addition to the team. By bolstering their defensive lineup, the Ducks are determined to improve their performance and end their playoff drought. With the start of the new season fast approaching, Ducks fans have reasons to be optimistic about the team’s prospects on the ice.
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