Tue, Feb 26, 2008 at 12:40pm

SALEI TO AVS

The Colorado Avalanche acquired defenseman Ruslan Salei from the Florida Panthers for defenseman Karlis Skrastins and a third-round draft pick in 2008.

What does it give the Colorado Avalanche
In Salei they acquire a gritty defenseman who has found his offensive game somewhat late in his career. With the struggles the Avs have had on the blueline this season (both offensively and defensively, especially from their young rearguards) Salei adds a veteran presence who brings attitude and some offensive punch.

What does it give the Florida Panthers
Skrastins is a veteran leader who does the little things to help a team win. The 3rd-round pick will likely bring a more valuable player, but the Panthers don't lose too much in replacing Salei with Skrastins (except a little in the offensive zone).

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Florida Panthers

a third-round draft pick in 2008

Karlis Skrastins D

Colorado Avalanche

Ruslan Salei D