Fri, Feb 24, 2012 at 5:51pm

PANTHERS ADD SMITHSON

The Florida Panthers acquired forward Jerred Smithson from the Nashville Predators for a sixth-round draft pick in 2012.

What does it give the Florida Panthers
The Panthers are going for the playoffs this season, so adding capable role players such as Smithson is a must. Smithson doesn't score much at all but can win important face-offs, play center or wing, kill penalties and grate on the opposition. He also proved he could step up his game during last spring's playoffs, so that's another good reason for Florida GM Dale Tallon to pick him up at this time. He also came fairly cheaply, so this is a solid move for the Cats.

What does it give the Nashville Predators
The Preds were using Smithson mostly at center this season, but the emergence of Nick Spaling down the middle changed things in Nashville. Also, young Craig Smith is a natural center who has been forced to spend most of his time on the wing this season. He may go back to C now. Or, the club may recall Chris Mueller (who is playing very well in the AHL this season). Lastly, Nashville could be looking to make a bigger move for a center before the deadline.

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