CAPITALS TRADE TOP PROSPECT FORSBERG
The Washington Capitals acquired winger Martin Erat and center Michael Latta from the Nashville Predators for winger Filip Forsberg.
What does it give the Washington Capitals
In Erat, the Capitals get another scoring winger to play with one of their playmaking centers (either {P Nicklas Backstrom} or {P Mike Ribeiro}). He should like playing under Adam Oates, who is a much more offensive-minded coach than Nashville's Barry Trotz. Also, Latta is a center currently toiling at the AHL level. He may have a future in Washington, and it may be relatively soon (depending on their off-season plans). All told, this was a very solid move by the Caps--though it cost them a valuable prospect in Forsberg.
What does it give the Nashville Predators
In Forsberg, the Predators get a two-way winger with size and scoring ability. He might be an ideal player for Barry Trotz, since he can be used in all game situations. He is likely to land on Nashville's top two lines as early as next season. Nashville needs more forwards who can create their own offense, and create their own shot. Forsberg appears to be a perfect fit. That said, moving Erat here may be an indication that the Preds have given up on this season in terms of making the playoffs.
Fantasy impact
Erat should see a pretty significant spike in terms of fantasy value, since he should play a top-six winger role in Washington (with power-play time). Forsberg will probably play a more significant role in Nashville than he would have in Washington, though he is moving to a less offensive team. Therefore, his fantasy value should be a wash. As for Latta, he's a long-range super sleeper.
