Mon, Aug 16, 2004 at 12:00am

PROSPAL BACK IN TB

The Tampa Bay Lightning acquired forward Vaclav Prospal from the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim for a second-round draft pick in 2005.

What does it give the Tampa Bay Lightning
After acquiring Cory Stillman to replace Prospal last year, the Lightning have decided to reverse course in 2005. Prospal should return to play left wing on Vincent Lecavalier's line, which will allow 2003-04 MVP Martin St. Louis to rejoin 2004 Conn Smythe trophy winner Brad Richards' line. Prospal will be asked to match Stillman's 2003-04 totals with the Bolts.

What does it give the Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks are continuing to shed payroll. Prospal didn't adjust well to the Western Conference, nor did he look comfortable in Anaheim's defensive system. However, his production will be missed on a team that's starting to look like a franchise in complete reconstruction. In fact, expect the fire sale to continue in the weeks ahead.

Fantasy impact