Tue, Mar 4, 2014 at 5:40pm

'HAWKS ADD OFFENSIVE D-MAN RUNDBLAD

The Chicago Blackhawks acquired defensemen David Rundblad and Mathieu Brisebois from the Phoenix Coyotes for a second-round draft pick in 2014.

What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
In Rundblad, the Blackhawks land a talented offensive rearguard who has yet to earn the trust of whatever coach he has had at the NHL level. For now, he might not play a lot but he is in line to move up to No. 7 defenseman status next year. For now, he'll be the No. 8 defenseman and add depth. He's a project. As for the 21-year-old Brisebois, he's an undersized rearguard who plays a big game. His translation to the pro game has been slow, however.

What does it give the Phoenix Coyotes
The Coyotes decided to give up on Rundblad, who really never panned out for coach {B Dave Tippett}--a staunch defensive coach. They also threw in another blueliner in order to land a quality asset in the second-round pick, which may be used in order to address more team needs before the deadline. Phoenix obviously feels comfortable about their situation on defense, since NHL teams don't normally deal two of them for a draft pick.

Fantasy impact
Rundblad becomes a top fantasy sleeper now as a member of the Blackhawks. The problem? His defense will be under just as much scrutiny (and perhaps even more) in Chicago. Brisebois is a long-range player who should emerge on the keeper radar now, but is still a long shot.