Tue, Mar 2, 2004 at 9:00pm

KINGS ADD DEMPSEY

The Los Angeles Kings acquired defenseman Nathan Dempsey from the Chicago Blackhawks for a fourth-round draft pick in 2005 and future considerations.

What does it give the Los Angeles Kings
The banged-up Kings need help everywhere if they are to make the postseason. Adding another puck-moving defenseman like Dempsey is a sound move by Kings GM Dave Taylor. He should take some pressure off the team's trio of rookie defensemen--who have been recently pressed into service due to more injuries to the defense corps.

What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
Dempsey was a good player for Chicago but, in order to continue the rebuilding process, players Dempsey's age must be sacrificed. Since the 2005 draft is considered deep, and with future considerations also involved, the 'Hawks may actually turn Dempsey into something worthwhile.

Fantasy impact