Mon, Mar 21, 2022 at 12:05pm

ARIZONA, WINNIPEG SWAP

The Arizona Coyotes acquired center Nathan Smith and forward Bryan Little from the Winnipeg Jets for a fourth-round draft pick in 2022.

What does it give the Arizona Coyotes
The Coyotes get Smith, a quality NCAA forward who was not going to sign with the Jets. Arizona acquired Jack McBain in a similar situation earlier. They also get Little, who is essentially retired. His contract, however, will help the 'Yotes get to the salary floor.

What does it give the Winnipeg Jets
For Winnipeg, getting Little's contract off the books may help them re-sign Andrew Copp before the trade deadline. The draft pick in return is essentially compensation for not being able to sign Smith, who would have become a UFA in August, 2023.

Fantasy impact
Smith could be on the keeper radar now, especially in deeper leagues. He is not likely to be a draft candidate in yearly leagues for the 2022-23 season.