SEKERA TO CAROLINA FOR McBAIN
The Carolina Hurricanes acquired defenseman Andrej Sekera from the Buffalo Sabres for defenseman Jamie McBain and a second-round draft pick (35th overall) in 2013.
What does it give the Carolina Hurricanes
The Hurricanes made no bones about their desire to improve their blueline, so landing Sekera addresses their need. However did they overpay? Sekera is a solid puck mover who can play any role with modest success but he isn't a true impact defenseman. That said, the 'Canes needed to part ways with McBain, who had regressed recently. Trading away a second rounder here may hurt, however.
What does it give the Buffalo Sabres
The Sabres did very well to add a blueliner and a second-round pick in this deal for Sekera. McBain needed a change of scenery but should be much better for Buffalo, while the pick was used on high-energy pivot {P J.T. Compher}. Sekera was also more expensive than McBain, so the Sabres also saved a bit of salary-cap space with this move. All told, Buffalo won this trade by quite a bit.
Fantasy impact
Sekera moves to a more offensive squad in Carolina, so his fantasy value could see a bit of a spike. McBain should also have a new lease on life with Buffalo, upping his fantasy value. Lastly, Compher will be a decent keeper-league player in very deep leagues.
