DEVILS, THRASHERS SWAP BLUELINERS
The New Jersey Devils acquired defenseman Niclas Havelid and winger Myles Stoesz from the Atlanta Thrashers for defenseman Anssi Salmela.
What does it give the New Jersey Devils
The Devils get a solid veteran blueliner who takes care of his own end with aplomb. Havelid will see time as a top four rearguard but isn't much of an offensive threat. This move likely bumps Jay Leach off the roster and Andy Greene to the No. 7 defenseman role. Stoesz is an enforcer a few years away from the NHL.
What does it give the Atlanta Thrashers
Salmela is a more offensive rearguard who could wind up seeing time on the power play in Atlanta. He likes to take chances on offense, which may not be a good thing for a defensively-challenged outfit like the Thrashers. Havelid may be interested in returning to Atlanta next season, which would make this a clear win for Atlanta.
Fantasy impact
