BLUES ADD RUSSELL FOR NIKITIN
The St. Louis Blues acquired defenseman Kris Russell from the Columbus Blue Jackets for defenseman Nikita Nikitin.
What does it give the St. Louis Blues
Russell is now reunited with former Columbus coach Ken Hitchcock in St. Louis. He looks to jump-start his career but might have trouble finding a role on a much deeper Blues defense corps. Hitchcock likes Russell, so at least the latter has that going for him.
What does it give the Columbus Blue Jackets
Nikitin was the odd man out on defense for the Blues recently, having dressed for just one of nine games before the trade. He should get more opportunities in Columbus, a team struggling to get consistent offense from anywhere. Nikitin has upside, so this is a good gamble for the Jackets. They also save some cash in the deal.
Fantasy impact
