PREDS WIN WITT SWEEPSTAKES
The Nashville Predators acquired defenseman Brendan Witt from the Washington Capitals for forward Kris Beech and a first-round draft pick in 2006.
What does it give the Nashville Predators
The Predators needed more toughness along the blueline, and they added a big hombre in Witt. That said, they gave up a big return in unloading their first rounder this summer. Beech was totally expendable as a throw-in, so it really comes down to Witt for the top pick. Look for Witt to stick around in Nashville for a while beyond this season, since he's comfortable with GM David Poile--the man that drafted him with the Capitals.
What does it give the Washington Capitals
The Caps waited out the Witt sweepstakes, but finally landed a first rounder for him. Therefore, this is an excellent trade for GM George McPhee, since he knew all along that Witt was going to be gone. Beech returns to the team that originally drafted him, but isn't expected to be an impact player at the National Hockey League level.
Fantasy impact
