NHL Trades on Tuesday

Sports

NHL Trades on Tuesday 

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Many transactions have gone through on Tuesday in the National Hockey League, including some pretty big names. However the big names rumored to be traded before the deadline tomorrow have yet to be moved. 

The Minnesota Wild have acquired goaltender Illya Bryzgalov from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for a fourth round draft pick in the 2014 draft. The Wild, who have expressed interest in Martin Brodeur, have filled the position with a streaky net minder in Bryzgalov. Another, trade today occurred between the Anaheim Ducks and the Washington Capitals. The Washington Capitals have acquired Dustin Penner in exchange for a fourth round draft pick in the 2014 draft. This was easily the biggest bargain deal that occurred this season. The Capitals received a veteran winger that has two Stanley Cups on his résumé. Every team that is making a playoff run longs for the type of player Dustin Penner is during the post-season. 

The Anaheim Ducks had a busy day, as they acquired Stephane Robidas and traded their break-out goaltender Viktor Fasth. Stephane Robidas would be a great addition to a relatively young defensive squad, but he has been on the injury reserve since November 29th. Although the Ducks did not give up much more Robidas (a conditional 4th round pick in the 2014 draft), they cannot count on Robidas to be the difference maker for their playoff picture. Viktor Fasth has proved his ability to be a starting goaltender, but traveling to Edmonton with one of the best break out goaltenders this season, Ben Scrivens, starting may be tougher than it may seem.  

The Vancouver Canucks and the Florida Panthers made an unexpected deal. The Canucks traded goaltender Roberto Luongo and forward Steven Anthony in exchange for goaltender Jacob Markstrom and forward Shawn Matthias. This deal proved to be a way to relieve the Canucks of Luongo's relatively expensive and long contract. In addition, this proved that the Canucks have confidence in backup goaltender Eddie Lack, who for the most part has been successful behind Luongo. Although this deal may seem strategic, it is still a third string goalie and fourth line center in exchange for a top ten starting goaltender and a CHL player.