Rene Bourque will get an opportunity show he’s still got NHL-level skills.
Bourque, who was dealt to Anaheim by the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday, cleared waivers Nov. 10 and was playing with the American Hockey League’s Hamilton Bulldogs at the time of the trade.
“Bourque will be coming to Anaheim and will get a decent look at a spot,” said Ducks’ GM Bob Murray. “With some the things that have went on, I wasn’t happy with our forwards. I like his size and skating. We’re not moving well enough.
"[Bourque] has also proven he can score in the playoffs, if you get there. I liked that as well.”
Bourque, 32, had two goals and two assists in four AHL games this season. He went without a goal in 13 games with the Canadiens prior to being placed on waivers.
Originally an undrafted free-agent signing by the Chicago Blackhawks, Bourque has 142 goals and 278 points in 573 regular season games. He also has 11 goals and 15 points in 27 career playoff games.
Bourque has one year remaining, after this season, on his six-year, $20 million contract.
It could be a few days before Bourque suits up for the Ducks, as Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register points out, the Alberta native needs to acquire a work visa.