KINGS ADD D-MAN ELLERBY
The Los Angeles Kings acquired defenseman Keaton Ellerby from the Florida Panthers for a fifth-round draft pick in 2013.
What does it give the Los Angeles Kings
In Ellerby, the Kings get a solid stay-at-home defenseman--something they badly needed due to long-term injuries to veterans {P Willie Mitchell} and {P Matt Greene}. While Ellerby isn't as physical as either vet, he does skate well for a big man and owns some untapped upside as a shutdown defender. The Kings hope Ellerby rounds out his game under coach Darryl Sutter.
What does it give the Florida Panthers
It was purely a numbers game for Ellerby in South Florida, as {P Erik Gudbranson}'s return to action would have meant a lot of time in the press box for Ellerby had he not been dealt. The Panthers have liked {P Tyson Strachan}'s game as well, which further eased the decision to ship out Ellerby. Gudbranson and Strachan are both more physical than Ellerby, which is what Florida needs.
Fantasy impact
This deal won't do much for Ellerby's fantasy value, since he's mainly a defender. Similarly, it won't change much for the likes of Gudbranson and Strachan, though Gudbranson has more upside than any of the three. Therefore, his overall fantasy value will see a bit of a spike here.
