Wed, Mar 3, 2004 at 11:40am

BRUINS NAB GONCHAR

The Boston Bruins acquired defenseman Sergei Gonchar from the Washington Capitals for defenseman Shaone Morrisonn, a first-round draft pick in 2004 and second-round draft pick in 2004.

What does it give the Boston Bruins
Ever since the Bruins lost promising rearguard Jonathan Girard to injuries stemming from an auto accident in the off-season, they've been searching for more offensive help from the back end. In Gonchar, they get the best in the business--a consummate power-play quarterback with outstanding offensive instincts. He'll turn Boston's man advantage situation into one of the most feared in the league. However, Gonchar's defensive game is barely superior to that of rookie Morrisonn today. However, as long as Gonchar produces, he'll be an asset to the B's.

What does it give the Washington Capitals
Morrisonn should be a stalwart for several years to come. When all the dust settles on Washington's rebuilding plan, he'll wind up as one of the Caps cornerstone players. Adding first and second-round picks in this year's draft can only help with the youth movement. Overall, this was an excellent (and necessary move) by GM George McPhee.

Fantasy impact