HORVAT HEADED TO THE ISLANDERS!
The New York Islanders acquired center Bo Horvat from the Vancouver Canucks for winger Anthony Beauvillier, center Aatu Raty and a conditional first-round draft pick in 2023.
What does it give the New York Islanders
The Islanders are getting the best player in this deal without a doubt. Horvat brings a strong two-way game with major offensive punch. He is enjoying a career season offensively, scoring 31 goals so far, and should bolster an Islanders offense in desperate need of some more finishing ability up front. With Brock Nelson, Mathew Barzal, Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Casey Cizikas already in place, Horvat's arrival means that one of the centers will move to wing on a permanent basis.
What does it give the Vancouver Canucks
Trading a captain is never easy, but a move seemed inevitable once no extension was reached. In return, the Canucks get a speedy winger in Beauvillier (20 points in 49 games this season). He will be a top-nine forward for Vancouver. Raty was a second-round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft. He made his first 12 NHL appearances this season and should get more chances to develop with the Canucks. The 2023 first-round pick is top-12 protected, and could become unprotected in 2024.
Fantasy impact
Horvat was already a fantasy star so far this season, so that should not change now that he is on Long Island. Expect him to play top-six forward minutes at even strength and get lots of power-play time. Beauvillier could also be worth a look in deeper leagues as he should now get more offensive opportunities with Vancouver. Raty is a definite keeper and may get regular ice time in Vancouver down the stretch. Pick him up!
