Sat, Jul 30, 2005 at 4:00pm

HNIDY MOVES TO ATLANTA

The Atlanta Thrashers acquired defenseman Shane Hnidy from the Nashville Predators for a fourth-round draft pick in 2006.

What does it give the Atlanta Thrashers
Hnidy should provide leadership and muscle to the backline in Atlanta, though he may not be worth a fourth-round pick in a deep 2006 draft. Obviously, the Thrashers are hoping Hnidy can provide enough intangibles to justify the trade. He'll likely play a top-six role in Atlanta, though that's not a guarantee.

What does it give the Nashville Predators
The Predators had no room for Hnidy on the roster, since they boast one of the best young defense crops in the NHL. In fact, they weren't even expected to offer him a contract this weekend. Therefore, adding a fourth-round pick next year is a major coup for GM David Poile.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Atlanta Thrashers

Shane Hnidy D

Nashville Predators

a fourth-round draft pick in 2006