'YOTES DEAL FOR KLESLA
The Phoenix Coyotes acquired defenseman Rostislav Klesla and winger Dane Byers from the Columbus Blue Jackets for winger Scottie Upshall and defenseman Sami Lepisto.
What does it give the Phoenix Coyotes
The Coyotes needed more blueline help, especially since veterans Ed Jovanovski and Adrian Aucoin have played a bit too much this season (and have subsequently battled injuries). Enter Klesla, who has battled injuries throughout his career himself. When healthy, however, he's the type of shutdown blueliner that Phoenix needed. He may wind up being paired with fellow Czech veteran Michal Rozsival, which would be a very strong third pairing when the playoffs begin (assuming Phoenix makes it in). Losing Upshall up front hurts a bit, so expect GM Don Maloney to make another move before the deadline--this time for a winger. Byers is a fourth-line hopeful who provides depth and some size. He'll likely remain in the AHL.
What does it give the Columbus Blue Jackets
Upshall is a solid addition for Columbus, even though their biggest short-term need was at the center position. Upshall plays a feisty game, but he also is a streaky scorer. Therefore, he should fit in well on a team in need of more help up front. Lepisto is a decent puck mover who should provide more defensive depth and help alleviate the loss of Klesla. The Jackets blueline is fairly solid, especially with the emergence of rookie Grant Clitsome and recent acquisition of Craig Rivet, so they could afford to move out Klesla at this time.
Fantasy impact
