Mon, Jun 27, 2011 at 5:20pm

PANTHERS ADD KOPECKY

The Florida Panthers acquired forward Tomas Kopecky from the Chicago Blackhawks for a conditional seventh-round draft pick.

What does it give the Florida Panthers
The Panthers are trying to pattern themselves a little bit like GM Dale Tallon's former club: the Blackhawks. Adding yet another former 'Hawk in Kopecky (assuming he re-signs as a potential UFA) makes sense in that regard. He can play a wide variety of roles up front, so he should help Florida.

What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks didn't have plans for the Slovakian veteran, as he was scheduled to leave via unrestricted free agency. Therefore, they did well to land a conditional seventh rounder in either '12 or '13 for a player who was about to be set free anyway. Chicago has replacements in line for what Kopecky brings to the table.

Fantasy impact