Andrej Sustr, a towering defenseman standing at 6 feet 7 inches, began his professional hockey career after signing with the Tampa Bay Lightning as an undrafted free agent in 2013. Born in Plzeň, Czech Republic, Sustr moved to North America to further his hockey development, playing junior hockey in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Youngstown Phantoms before committing to the University of Nebraska-Omaha. His college career showcased his potential, leading to his entry into the NHL.
Sustr made his NHL debut with the Lightning during the 2012-2013 season. His size and reach were immediately noticeable, and he quickly became a regular on the Lightning's blue line. Over the next few seasons, Sustr developed into a reliable defenseman, known for his defensive play and ability to use his size to his advantage. He played a role in the Lightning's deep playoff runs, including their journey to the Stanley Cup Final in 2015, where they ultimately fell to the Chicago Blackhawks.
Throughout his tenure with Tampa Bay, Sustr was often paired with various partners on defense, adapting to different roles as needed. His time with the Lightning saw him contribute both defensively and offensively, though his primary focus remained on shutting down opposing forwards and protecting his goaltender. Sustr's presence on the ice was a constant for the Lightning, as he played in over 300 games for the team.
In 2018, Sustr signed with the Anaheim Ducks, seeking a new opportunity to further his career. His time with the Ducks was marked by a transition period, as he adjusted to a new team and system. Sustr's stint in Anaheim was relatively short, and he found himself splitting time between the NHL and the American Hockey League (AHL), playing for the San Diego Gulls, the Ducks' AHL affiliate.
After his contract with the Ducks, Sustr returned to the Lightning organization in 2021, signing a two-way contract. This move allowed him to provide depth to the Lightning's defensive corps and mentor younger players within the organization. Sustr's experience and familiarity with the team made him a valuable asset, both on and off the ice.
In addition to his NHL career, Sustr also represented the Czech Republic on the international stage. He played for his home country in various tournaments, including the IIHF World Championships, where he competed against some of the best players from around the world.
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