In somewhat of a surprise move, the Ducks brought up Hermosa Beach native Brian Salcido from Iowa and sent defenseman Brett Festerling back to the AHL.

Festerling [stats here] had seemingly established himself in the Ducks’ defensive rotation, playing 37 of a possible 41 games since Francois Beauchemin went down in November. Festerling is also considered a defensive-minded blueliner, while Salcido [stats here] was the Iowa Chops’ second-leading scorer at the time of his recall (seven goals, 32 points in 54 games). Clearly, the hope is for more offense and better puck-moving from the back end, areas of proficiency for the Ducks’ next opponent.