Mon, Feb 26, 2007 at 12:00am

SMOLINSKI NOW WITH CANUCKS

The Vancouver Canucks acquired forward Bryan Smolinski from the Chicago Blackhawks for a second-round draft pick in 2007.

What does it give the Vancouver Canucks
The Canucks primarily needed a winger, so they did better and they picked up a player that can play all three forward positions. The team had their backs up against the salary-cap ceiling, but were given some breathing room by placing center Ryan Kesler on the long-term injury list. Smolinski's presence will fill the void left by Kesler. In fact, Vancouver may slot Smolinski on the wing on the second unit, because he is better suited there. A veteran of 14 seasons, Smolinski, who was Chicago's second-leading scorer, is a potential unrestricted free agent this summer.

What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
The club is stockpiling draft picks as it retools for next season. A second-rounder is an excellent return for a player that wasn't going to be a Blackhawk next season.

Fantasy impact