Lukas Dostal Returns to the Ice as Ducks Activate Him from Injured Reserve
The Anaheim Ducks have officially activated goaltender Lukas Dostal from injured reserve. This decision comes after Dostal missed the last nine games due to an upper-body injury.
Lukas Dostal’s Injury and Return
Initially labeled as day-to-day on November 26, Dostal’s recovery timeline shifted to week-to-week. The Ducks managed a record of 5-4-0 during his absence, showcasing resilience despite his injury.
Dostal has made a significant impact when healthy. In 17 games this season, he holds an impressive record of 11 wins, 5 losses, and 1 overtime loss. His .904 save percentage complements his remarkable statistic of 10 goals saved above expected at even strength, ranking him seventh in the NHL.
Contract and Season Overview
In the summer, Dostal signed a five-year contract worth $6.5 million per year. As a third-round pick in the 2018 NHL Draft, he is now in his fifth NHL season and second as the Ducks’ starting goaltender.
Impact on Team Roster
With Dostal’s return, he will take over the starting goaltender role. Ville Husso, who filled in during Dostal’s absence, will shift back to backup duties. Husso played eight games during this period, achieving a record of 5 wins and 3 losses, with an .888 save percentage and a -1.16 goals saved above expected.
- Ville Husso’s Statistics:
- Games Played: 8
- Record: 5-3-0
- Save Percentage: .888
- 5v5 Goals Saved Above Expected: -1.16
Another roster update includes Vyacheslav Buteyets being sent to the ECHL affiliate, the Tulsa Oilers. In his brief appearance, Buteyets allowed three goals on 13 shots in a game against the Utah Mammoth, resulting in a .769 save percentage.
Current Standings and Upcoming Games
The Ducks hold second place in the Pacific Division with a record of 19-11-1. They aim to bounce back from a recent 5-2 defeat against the New York Islanders. Their next challenge will be against the New Jersey Devils, scheduled for Saturday at 9:30 a.m. PST.
