LIGHTNING ADD BREWER
The Tampa Bay Lightning acquired defenseman Eric Brewer from the St. Louis Blues for defenseman Brock Beukeboom and a third-round draft pick in 2011.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Lightning
Brewer adds more stability along the Lightning blueline. He's a veteran enjoying a very good season in 2010-11. He can add some offense, but his primary job in Tampa Bay will be to play solidly in his own end and add more leadership to the squad. The Lightning decided they could afford to part with Beukeboom and a third rounder in order to plug this hole along the blueline at this time. Brewer's arrival could make another Lightning rearguard expendable (perhaps Randy Jones or Matt Smaby).
What does it give the St. Louis Blues
The Blues are clearly taking a long-term approach now, since injuries have likely knocked them out of the playoff chase in the Western Conference. Losing Brewer hurts in the short term, but they'll probably give Nikita Nikitin a longer look the rest of the way. Ian Cole is another player who should see more time in the NHL in 2010-11. Beukeboom is a good long-range prospect, while a third rounder also helps the situation here. Overall, this is a decent return for a club if in selling mode. It's just a little surprising St. Louis has thrown in the towel this early.
Fantasy impact
