Dazed and Confused
Ludicrous speed, GO!
No, it's literally not. Bottom-pairing dmen that moonlight in the top-4 are NHL regulars, something Stetcher has not been since pre-COVID. He's been a 6/7.
Yes, he's been deployed as a top-4 dman here ever since he signed here. How have you not noticed this.
His icetime and usage are basically in line with Kulak’s over the last few seasons. Not a true top four guy, but very much an NHL regular.
And much like Kulak here, Stecher has seen spot top 4 duty with DET, LA, and ARI during that time frame.
Is he a proper solution for the top 4 next to Nurse? God no. Especially come the playoffs.
But as a platoon/safety net for the first few months of the season, so they can ease Broberg into the role? Yeah sure.
Truth be told, even if Ceci were moved, I'm not sure I'd have Stecher in my top 6 going into the playoffs. I'd likely give Kemp the role instead.