Thu, Feb 6, 2014 at 10:30pm

BLACKHAWKS ADD DEPTH UP FRONT

The Chicago Blackhawks acquired forwards Peter Regin and Pierre-Marc Bouchard from the New York Islanders for a fourth-round draft pick in 2014.

What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
This is a solid depth move for the defending champions, as Regin can play center (a bit of a problem area for Chicago this season) or wing and has been toiling in the NHL in 2013-14. Perhaps even more intriguing is Bouchard, a playmaking winger whose game has eroded over time. The Islanders shipped him to the AHL earlier this season, so this change should be good for him.

What does it give the New York Islanders
This move may be the start of the Islanders' plan to dump veteran contracts for picks/prospects before the March 5 trade deadline. Things haven't gone the Isles' way in 2013-14, as expectations were much higher going into the campaign. Therefore, moving out Regin and Bouchard at this time may just be the start of their retooling plans. Will {P Thomas Vanek} be next?

Fantasy impact
Bouchard has more scoring upside than Regin, but for now he will have to prove to Chicago that he's still a capable NHLer. As for Regin, he may see regular action as a bottom-six forward with Chicago but is more likely to be a part-time player. Both should be considered fantasy dark horses at this point.