KENNEDY TO THE SHARKS
The San Jose Sharks acquired winger Tyler Kennedy from the Pittsburgh Penguins for a second-round draft pick (50th overall) in 2013.
What does it give the San Jose Sharks
The Sharks are looking for a third liner who can be a factor in the playoffs, which is why they dealt a second rounder for Kennedy. For his part, Kennedy has come up with big goals for the Penguins in the playoffs over the years but his role had diminished since {P Jordan Staal} was dealt from their third line. Kennedy should play a third-line role in San Jose, at least until {P Martin Havlat} returns from injury.
What does it give the Pittsburgh Penguins
The Penguins qualified Kennedy, who earned $2 million and is scheduled for restricted free agency, but they had intentions of moving him in order to free up some cap space. They did well to land a second rounder, which they later dealt in a swap of picks to select potential future netminder {P Tristan Jarry}. The Pens will look to replace Kennedy with another bottom-six forward from the outside.
Fantasy impact
Kennedy really missed Staal's presence on his line in 2013, and truly needs a quality pivot to be a fantasy factor. If the Sharks go with the three-center approach ({P Joe Thornton}, {P Logan Couture} and {P Joe Pavelski}), Kennedy might have some super-sleeper appeal. Otherwise, he'll continue to be a role player.
