DIAZ TO 'NUCKS, WEISE TO HABS
The Vancouver Canucks acquired defenseman Raphael Diaz from the Montreal Canadiens for winger Dale Weise.
What does it give the Vancouver Canucks
The Canucks have struggled offensively this season, in part because of a down campaign from usual power-play stud {P Alexander Edler}. They also have some injuries among their top six D-men, so veteran Diaz might step in and help right away. Diaz also has a very affordable contract, and Vancouver can let him go after this season if he doesn't pan out. Weise wasn't a major contributor this season, so getting an underrated skilled blueliner such as Diaz for him here is a nice move.
What does it give the Montreal Canadiens
Weise brings some spark and toughness to Montreal's lower lines, elements sorely needed right for a while now. Additionally, like Diaz, Weise has an inexpensive contract. Diaz fell down the Canadiens' depth chart as this season progressed, drawing regular healthy scratches since the start of January. Part of that is because of the recent emergence of young blueliner {P Nathan Beaulieu}, who plays a similar role and essentially stole Diaz' minutes over the past several weeks.
Fantasy impact
Diaz becomes more intriguing fantasy-wise following this deal, since his playing time has nowhere to go but up and he has some untapped offensive potential. That said, don't snap him up just yet; first he needs to establish his role in Vancouver. Weise might help out in the hits category in fantasy leagues rewarding that stat, but don't expect much more from him in the box score. The arrival of Weise might mean even fewer minutes for big {P George Parros}, but that isn't saying much.
