SENS ADD WINGER HEMSKY
The Ottawa Senators acquired winger Ales Hemsky from the Edmonton Oilers for a fifth-round draft pick in 2014 and a third-round draft pick in 2015.
What does it give the Ottawa Senators
A player who knows the Ottawa area very well (he played his junior hockey in the QMJHL with Hull), Hemsky should help the Senators up front in the short term. He could end up playing with fellow Czech {P Milan Michalek} and {P Jason Spezza}, though Hemsky is more of a playmaker who needs the puck on his stick to be most effective (as is Spezza). In any event, he's a good acquisition for a team that hasn't given up hope of making the playoffs...and he didn't come at a steep price.
What does it give the Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers finally rid themselves of Hemsky, a player rumored to be on the trading block for several years. They get two draft picks in return, and the third rounder is probably the key to the deal here from an Edmonton standpoint. Look for GM {B Craig MacTavish} to continue to seek more help...both up front and on defense. Hemsky had been playing on the third line most of the time this season, so it's not going to be a big difference without him. Also, {P Nail Yakupov} should see an increase in ice time now.
Fantasy impact
Hemsky's short-term impact in Ottawa could be significant, especially if he finds quick chemistry (with Michalek and/or others). In the long run, he may enjoy a return to the Ottawa area and he's still only 30 years old. There's still upside here. Another potential winner here is Yakupov, whose status on the Oilers should move up now.
Player focus
Edmonton Oilers
a fifth-round draft pick in 2014
a third-round draft pick in 2015
