I think the most important aspect in a WCHA defensemen is experience. No matter how many Gophers forwards turn pro next year, I think they will be just as good or better than this years team if the blue line all return and can be healthy.
Ideally I'd always have experience on the 1st pair, working freshmen in on the last two pairs but giving them PP time in their skills warant it.
As for comparing Lucia's to Blais/Hakstol defensive recruits, wasn't the Don trying to get Smaby, Lee, Radke and Finley? Seems like both programs want the same thing. Size and skill.