Wed, Apr 3, 2013 at 2:44pm

WILD GET BUFFALO CAPTAIN POMINVILLE

The Minnesota Wild acquired winger Jason Pominville and a fourth-round draft pick in 2014 from the Buffalo Sabres for forward Johan Larsson, goaltender Matt Hackett, a first-round draft pick in 2013 and a second-round draft pick in 2014.

What does it give the Minnesota Wild
In Pominville, the Wild land a legitimate top-six winger with a versatile game and leadership qualities. He will likely slide onto the top line with {P Mikko Koivu} and {P Zach Parise}, replacing rookie {P Charlie Coyle}. He may also see time at the point on the power play opposite {P Ryan Suter}. He is a major addition to a Wild team expecting to do major damage in the Northwest Division this season.

What does it give the Buffalo Sabres
The Sabres land two very good prospects in exchange for their captain, especially versatile Swedish forward Larsson. A two-way player, Larsson should be ready to contribute to the Sabres right away. After all, Buffalo is still on the fringes of a playoff race in the East. As for Hackett, he adds goaltending depth to the team. He may battle {P Jhonas Enroth} for the backup role to {P Ryan Miller}. Or, he could battle Enroth for the starting job if the club decides to deal Miller this summer.

Fantasy impact
Pominville should continue to be a steady point producer for his new team, though don't be surprised if he enjoys a short-term spike in fantasy value. Larsson is the big winner here, as he may move directly into Buffalo's lineup and play a variety of roles. Hackett has a chance to become Buffalo's starting netminder down the road, but there is still a veteran starter in front of him.