Thu, Mar 9, 2006 at 10:30am

HABS LAND SIMPSON

The Montreal Canadiens acquired defenseman Todd Simpson from the Chicago Blackhawks for a sixth-round draft pick in 2006.

What does it give the Montreal Canadiens
The Habs need more size and toughness from the back end, so Simpson may help in that regard. However, he's better suited for the No. 7 defenseman role. Simpson's arrival may trigger more movement from the Habs, who are still seeking a size upgrade up front.

What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
The draft pick is a decent return for a player (Simpson) not in the Blackhawks' long-term plans. This move will also allow the club to further evaluate young blueliners Dustin Byfuglien, Michal Barinka and others from now until the end of the season.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Montreal Canadiens

Todd Simpson D

Chicago Blackhawks

a sixth-round draft pick in 2006