JETS TAKE A FLYER ON WINGER TANGRADI
The Winnipeg Jets acquired winger Eric Tangradi from the Pittsburgh Penguins for a seventh-round draft pick in 2013.
What does it give the Winnipeg Jets
The Jets are taking a chance on a big, strapping winger who has yet to make his mark in the NHL. Tangradi has put up good numbers at the OHL and AHL levels, and once appeared for Team USA at the WJC, but he wasn't able to crack Pittsburgh's lineup. He was tried as a complementary winger on {P Evgeni Malkin}'s line this year, and also on the fourth line, but failed to impress. Tangradi's latest shot in Winnipeg may be his last at the NHL level.
What does it give the Pittsburgh Penguins
The Penguins continue to seek a permanent solution at left wing alongside Malkin and right-winger {P James Neal}. Tangradi was given first dibs following the lockout, but he didn't produce. A bit slow afoot, he didn't appear to be in the team's long-range plans (since coach Dan Bylsma's system is all about speed, quickness and puck pursuit). Therefore, the Penguins cut their losses here and netted an extra draft pick in what should be a deep draft.
Fantasy impact
Tangradi should see a significant spike in fantasy value here, provided he is able to finally stick as a regular in the NHL. If he doesn't pan out in Winnipeg, it's likely he will get waived (and start what could be several stops along the way). So, he should be plenty motivated. While he doesn't have {P Sidney Crosby} and Malkin as teammates any longer, Tangradi's fantasy prospects have improved provided he lands more ice time in Winnipeg.
