Ducks Sign Defenseman Boynton to One-Year Deal

The Anaheim Ducks added some defensive depth to their blueline last week by signing defenseman Nick Boynton to a one-year contract worth $1.5 million. In 68 games last season with the Florida Panthers, Boynton scored five goals and 16 assists for 21 points and 91 penalty minutes. In 505 career games with the Panthers, Boston Bruins, and Phoenix Coyotes, he has 32 goals and 96 assists for 128 points and 751 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Ducks, who were in need of some toughness on defense after the departures of Chris Pronger and Francois Beauchemin. While Boynton brings the Ducks plenty of defensive depth and physical play, his skill alone is not enough to replace the skills of Pronger and Beauchemin. Look for the Ducks to possibly pursue another affordable veteran defenseman to help further solidify their blueline.