DeAngelo >> current Ghost.
DeAngelo is an elite offensive defenseman, he's subpar on defense, but Carlson isn't exactly a defensive force either.
Nor did they pay too much for him, in terms of hockey talent, he's actually a bargain, problem is he's has serious issues that create a high level of risk.
The issue isn't the moves, it's the FO behind the moves, first commit to AV b/c they don't want to buy him out, then fire AV when they realize their mistake, trade and sign for Risto b/c they want to be more physical, then trade and sign for DeAngelo when they realize Ellis can't play and they need a puck moving offensive defenseman.
It's prime Holmgren, reactive moves to try to stay competitive instead of establishing and sticking to a long-term strategy.
Doesn't matter if the GM is Fletcher or Zito or anyone else, until the FO changes any GM will make similar moves.
Because they won't hire a GM who wants to blow it up and rebuild.