HORNQVIST HEADS TO FLORIDA
The Florida Panthers acquired winger Patric Hornqvist from the Pittsburgh Penguins for defenseman Mike Matheson and forward Colton Sceviour.
What does it give the Florida Panthers
In Hornqvist, the Panthers get a battle-tested warrior with Stanley Cup championship pedigree who should provide invaluable leadership and grit to the roster. He is no longer the player he once was, but that is because of the pounding he has taken in front of the opposing net over the years. Florida also saves a little bit of money on the 2020-21 salary cap with this transaction.
What does it give the Pittsburgh Penguins
For the Penguins, the hope here is that Matheson (who is signed for six more seasons with a cap hit of $4.875 million/year) can provide offense from the back end. He should essentially replace Justin Schultz, an unrestricted free agent. As for Sceviour, who can play all three forward positions, he will likely play on Pittsburgh's checking line next to Teddy Blueger and Brandon Tanev.
Fantasy impact
Hornqvist's best fantasy days are over, but he might still have a little bit of life if he is used on Florida's No. 1 power-play unit. Matheson is a huge fantasy wild card because he could blossom or bottom out in Pittsburgh. Sceviour's value is limited regardless of where he plays.
