STEPHENSON SENT TO VEGAS
The Vegas Golden Knights acquired forward Chandler Stephenson from the Washington Capitals for a fifth-round draft pick in 2021.
What does it give the Vegas Golden Knights
It is not surprising that Stephenson lands in Vegas, since Golden Knights president George McPhee drafted Stephenson while GM of the Capitals in 2012. Stephenson is a serviceable forward who can play all three positions up front. He will provide fourth-line depth and penalty-killing prowess, especially with Cody Eakin currently on the sidelines due to a concussion.
What does it give the Washington Capitals
The Capitals are currently very much in a salary cap crunch, so they needed to move somebody out in order to continue to be cap compliant. Stephenson's $1.05 million cap hit is now off the books and Washington avoided further money issues (for now). The Caps also did well to add a fifth-round pick in '21 in this trade. They now boast eight picks in seven rounds for the '21 draft.
Fantasy impact
There is no fantasy impact here, as Stephenson is a depth forward who does not provide a lot of offense. His main value will continue to be his energy, speed, versatility and ability to kill penalties.
Player focus
Washington Capitals
a fifth-round draft pick in 2021
