The Stars chose Lyubushkin over defensemen Alexander Petrovic and Kyle Capobianco.
“Just the way he’s played post-trade deadline and even right towards the end, we thought he’s played some good hockey,” Gulutzan said. “His best hockey has been in the second half of the season. It’s a heavy, hard series, and he’s a strong guy and a good defender.”
Lyubushkin saw more action down the stretch of the season than the other defensemen and he is a skilled penalty killer.
He finished with one goal and eight assists in 53 games for Dallas this season, averaging 15:44 of ice time.
He also has experience skating alongside Thomas Harley, which may be where he slots in Tuesday night.
“I like this game. I like to play,” Lyubushkin said. “Of course, I’m super excited to go in.”