Lukas Dostal Returns: Ducks Activate Goalie from Injured Reserve
The Anaheim Ducks have officially activated goaltender Lukas Dostal from injured reserve. This decision comes after Dostal missed nine games due to an upper-body injury sustained on November 26. Initially labeled as day-to-day, his recovery timeline later shifted to week-to-week.
Lukas Dostal’s Impressive Season So Far
During Dostal’s absence, the Ducks managed a 5-4-0 record. However, his return is highly anticipated as he has significantly contributed to the team’s strong start this season. In 17 games, Dostal has achieved an 11-5-1 record, showcasing a .904 save percentage and recording 10 goals saved above expected (GSAx), ranking seventh in the league.
Contract and Responsibilities
- Dostal is in the first year of a five-year contract.
- The contract has a cap hit of $6.5 million.
- He is in his fifth NHL season with the Ducks and second as the starting goaltender.
With Dostal back in action, he will resume his role as the starting goaltender. Ville Husso, who stepped up during Dostal’s recovery, will transition back to backup duties. Petr Mrazek remains sidelined due to a lower-body injury.
Ville Husso’s Performance as Backup
Husso’s time as a starter yielded a record of 5-3-0 along with an .888 save percentage and a -1.16 GSAx. The team’s strategy regarding Husso as a backup is noteworthy, especially as he has played eight games since his AHL recall. Should he participate in two additional games, he will need to go through waivers.
Related Team Movements
In a related move, the Ducks have sent Vyacheslav Buteyets to their ECHL affiliate, the Tulsa Oilers. Buteyets had limited action, only appearing in the third period during a loss against the Utah Mammoth, where he allowed three goals on 13 shots, resulting in a .769 save percentage.
Ducks’ Current Standing and Upcoming Games
The Ducks stand second in the Pacific Division with a record of 19-11-1. They aim to rebound from a recent 5-2 loss to the New York Islanders as they prepare to face the New Jersey Devils on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. PST.
