COYOTES GET ERAT FROM WASHINGTON
The Phoenix Coyotes acquired forwards Martin Erat and John Mitchell from the Washington Capitals for defenseman Rostislav Klesla, forward Chris Brown and a fourth-round draft pick in 2015.
What does it give the Phoenix Coyotes
This move makes a lot of sense for the Coyotes, who have been searching for a left-winger to play with {P Martin Hanzal} and {P Radim Vrbata} for quite some time. Fellow Czech Erat might make an immediate impact if he and his new linemates have the right chemistry. Big Mitchell had been playing in the AHL and is considered a journeyman. He's a throw-in here.
What does it give the Washington Capitals
While Klesla could be regarded as a salary dump, Brown has pretty good potential and could be viewed as the key player in this deal from a Washington standpoint. He's only 23 and still has untapped upside as an NHL regular. He's a bit of a project, but well worth a shot in a deal that needed to happen (since Erat wanted out of Washington).
Fantasy impact
Erat should see a short-term spike in fantasy value, and perhaps longer if he clicks with Hanzal and Vrbata. Brown has some intrigue as a fantasy sleeper, while Klesla and Mitchell have very little value to speak of at this time.
