Well its better than paying $4-5+ million on bottom guys that Verbeek typically does… like a Nick Perbix, or worst… a long term contract for a much older player…
Seth isn’t a #1 guy and he definitely can’t carry a bottom team (like the Blackhawks), but he would be the best RHD on our team and likely the defacto top dman until our prospects reach that level. 3 years isn’t that long for someone who just termed 30. If we can get an asset, why not? Otherwise we will just be waiting… or overpaying if someone like Ekblad is willing to join and he is a riskier proposition with his regression and injury history.
On the the other hand, his play will not likely elevate in Anaheim as the support around him isn't much better. His quality of play is not that much better than what's already on the team. Additionally, there is a space issue: Trouba, Gudas, Helleson, and Luneau. Between the cost of acquisition, blocking young players, marginal improvement of play, and size of cap, it just doesn't make sense.
IMO, I don't think the Ducks should be adding any defenseman unless it's a clear, long-term upgrade. Mintyukov, Zellweger, LaCombe, Helleson, Luneau, & Solberg are the clear future and any additional defenseman should be an upgrade on them.
We are the Buffalo of the West… lol
I would say that we are too early for this line of thinking. However, if the young players don't improve, then this will happen eventually. IMO, Buffalo's biggest mistake was not committing harder when it was time to take a step and trading away players too early. Verbeek seems to be more aggressive in that sense even if it hasn't worked consistently.
