Ducks Acquire Brookbank from Devils

The Anaheim Ducks announced late Tuesday night that they have acquired defenseman Sheldon Brookbank from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for the rights to center David McIntyre. The Ducks had acquired the rights to McIntyre back in December from Dallas in exchange for Brian Sutherby. In 15 games so far this season, Brookbank has no points and 25 penalty minutes. McIntyre, who has to appear in an NHL game, has played in 26 games this season with Colgate University, scoring 13 goals and 17 assists for 30 points. The Ducks were likely looking for some physical depth on their blueline and got it in Brookbank. Given the experience on the Ducks' defense, he may not see much playing time, but could fill in for injuries. However, he is under contract through next season and could possibly get a spot on the team next season as Chris Pronger is the only mainstay on the Ducks' defense signed through next season. While there is no guarantee that impending free agent defensemen Scott Niedermayer, Francois Beauchemin, Bret Hedican, Steve Montador, or Kent Huskins will be retained this summer, there is no guarantee Brookbank will make the team next season either. He will have to fight for a spot at training camp.