Hot on the heels of retirement announcements coming from Kenny Jonsson and last year's Norris Trophy winner Al MacInnis, the Ducks announced today the signings of three defensemen - restricted free agent Tom Poti, and "prospects" Kurt Sauer and Marek Zidlicky. Terms of the deals were not disclosed in accordance with team policy. 
While Poti and Zidlicky are capable of replacing much of the offense formerly provided by Jonsson and MacInnis, both will need to step up their defensive games if Sean Burke is to face less than 40 shots per game this season.
For the moment, Sauer appears to be fighting for the #6 spot on the Ducks' blueline with Jon Klemm and Sean Brown. Coach John Tortorella would probably prefer to go with the seasoned Klemm for the time being. However, the smart money at camp is on Sauer or Brown - GM Matt Gledhill is none too fond of Klemm's contract.
While Poti and Zidlicky are capable of replacing much of the offense formerly provided by Jonsson and MacInnis, both will need to step up their defensive games if Sean Burke is to face less than 40 shots per game this season.
For the moment, Sauer appears to be fighting for the #6 spot on the Ducks' blueline with Jon Klemm and Sean Brown. Coach John Tortorella would probably prefer to go with the seasoned Klemm for the time being. However, the smart money at camp is on Sauer or Brown - GM Matt Gledhill is none too fond of Klemm's contract.
