Shocker of a Trade - hattrick3518's Dynasty

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Shocker of a Trade

Posted on March 20, 2013 at 01:37 AM.

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November 27, 2012

In a bit of a surprise fashion today, the Ducks announced a trade with the Minnesota Wild. Anaheim sent Tomas Vanek packing early, he has had a bit of a slow start to the season, scoring just 6 goals and 17 points through 25 games; expectations were higher with his $7m+ cap hit. Fourth line center Vladimir Sobotka went with Vanek to Minnesota, he may be the biggest loss as he was a tremendous energy player, and had been having a bit of a breakout season offensively, with 4 goals and 16 points through 25 games, he was also a plus-11 rating.

The return the Ducks will be getting is a bit of a mystery, the package coming back includes wingers Kyle Clifford and Brad Staubitz, as well as a 2nd round pick in the upcoming draft. Staubitz is a tough guy and will bring more grit to a skill-heavy line-up, he will play in a complimentary role to fellow tough guy Ryan Reaves. Staubitz has had a tough start to the season, he is pointless and a minus-5 though 29 games with Minnesota. Clifford is a much more raw specimen, just 21 years old, he was selected 35th overall in 2009 by the LA Kings, he has played his first professional season with the AHL Houston Aeros, where he has scored 5 goals, and 19 points through 23 games. It is expected that he will be inserted into the NHL line-up as early as Thursday when the Ducks host the Blackhawks. The 2nd round pick will certainly be a bonus as the upcoming draft appears to be quite deep.

Summary:

From ANA: T. Vanek, V. Sobotka
From MIN: K. Clifford, B. Staubitz, 2nd-2013