STARS ADD PLAYMAKER SPEZZA
The Dallas Stars acquired center Jason Spezza and winger Ludwig Karlsson from the Ottawa Senators for wingers Alex Chiasson, Alexander Guptill and Nicholas Paul, plus a second-round draft pick in 2015.
What does it give the Dallas Stars
In Spezza, the Stars land one of the best setup men in the NHL. He was the top dog in Ottawa but will slide into the second-line center spot with the Stars, behind emerging superstar {P Tyler Seguin}. The Stars may need to bring in a winger to play alongside Spezza, but the Stars' overall offense (and, specifically, the power play) appear to be much improved with Spezza in tow. Karlsson isn't much of a prospect.
What does it give the Ottawa Senators
The Senators needed to part ways with their captain, and they did so by landing a decent package in return. The key will be Chiasson, a big scoring winger who could thrive with increased responsibilities in Ottawa. Guptill is another pretty good scoring prospect, while Paul is a bit more of a wild card. The second-round pick will also be an important element to this trade, as is the fact Ottawa saves money with this trade.
Fantasy impact
Spezza could thrive with less pressure in Dallas, so his fantasy value is on the way back up. Chiasson could be the big winner here, though, as he should receive more playing time in Ottawa. Guptill should also be on the fantasy radar, while the others involved are not at this time.
Player focus
Ottawa Senators
a second-round draft pick in 2015