DETROIT DEALS RUSSO TO ARIZONA
The Arizona Coyotes acquired defenseman Robbie Russo from the Detroit Red Wings for a conditional seventh-round draft pick in 2019.
What does it give the Arizona Coyotes
In Russo, the Coyotes add organizational depth on defense. Russo is already 25 years old, so his time to show he can become an NHL regular is running out. This is likely his final chance to prove it in training camp. The more likely scenario sees Russo playing in the AHL for much (if not all) of 2018-19.
What does it give the Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings felt the need to open up a spot on defense for their AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids, where the likes of Joe Hicketts, Filip Hronek, Libor Sulak, Dennis Cholowski and Vili Saarijarvi could all be playing in 2018-19 (if none crack Detroit's lineup). Therefore, moving Russo at this time makes sense.
Fantasy impact
Russo is an offensive defenseman, but he is not expected to play a lot (if at all) with Arizona this season. Therefore, his fantasy stock is reduced to super-sleeper status until further notice.
Player focus
Detroit Red Wings
a conditional seventh-round draft pick in 2019
