Former Florida Panthers defenseman Radko Gudas John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Ducks sign veteran defenseman to three-year deal

Originally posted on Daily Faceoff | By Mike Gould | Last updated 7/1/23

The Anaheim Ducks have signed defenseman Radko Gudas to a three-year contract, Daily Faceoff‘s Frank Seravalli reported Saturday afternoon.

Gudas, 33, collected two goals and 17 points while averaging 17:22 in 72 games with the Florida Panthers during the 2022–23 regular season.

The six-foot defender, who shoots right, added three assists while averaging 17:01 in 21 games with the Panthers during their run to the 2023 Stanley Cup Final.

Gudas’ new three-year contract with the Ducks reportedly carries a $4 million cap hit.

It's a big deal for Radko Gudas going to #NHLDucks: 3 years x $4 million.@DailyFaceoff @CapFriendly
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) July 1, 2023

The Panthers had originally signed Gudas to a three-year deal worth $2.5 million per season back in 2020. He was a steady, physical bottom-pairing defender throughout his tenure in Florida.

The Tampa Bay Lightning selected Gudas with a third-round pick (No. 66 overall) back in the 2010 NHL Draft. The Prague, Czechia product made his NHL debut with the Lightning during the 2012–12 season.

Gudas subsequently made stops in Philadelphia and Washington before landing in Florida. Now, he’ll join a Ducks defensive group that also includes Cam Fowler, Jamie Drysdale, Urho Vaakanainen, and Jackson LaCombe.

Through 682 games over parts of 11 NHL seasons with the Lightning, Flyers, Capitals, and Panthers, Gudas has collected 33 goals and 164 points. He’s added one goal and 10 points in 57 career playoff contests.

This article first appeared on Daily Faceoff and was syndicated with permission.

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