ISLES ADD MORE BLUELINE HELP IN LEDDY
The New York Islanders acquired defenseman Nick Leddy and goaltender Kent Simpson from the Chicago Blackhawks for defensemen T.J. Brennan and Ville Pokka, plus goaltender Anders Nilsson.
What does it give the New York Islanders
This deal looks like a steal for the Isles, who get a very dynamic offensive defenseman in Leddy--and someone who already has Stanley Cup championship experience. Leddy is still only 23 years old, and he now figures to play a much bigger role on his new team. In fact, don't be surprised if he supplants veteran {P Lubomir Visnovsky} as the power play quarterback on Long Island.
What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks had to move someone to become cap-compliant, but it's still somewhat surprising to see them tinker with their blueline. Leddy was a third-pairing rearguard for them, so the hope is that Brennan, {P David Rundblad} or and/rookie {P Trevor van Riemsdyk} can fill the void of losing Leddy. Pokka has the most upside of the players acquired, while Nilsson adds more goaltending depth.
Fantasy impact
There is no doubt Leddy is the big fantasy winner here, as are his keeper-league owners. He should produce far more offense with the Islanders. This move is also good news for Brennan, who might be able to carve out a niche as Leddy's direct replacement on a Cup contender. Rundblad is another winner here. Most of the young blueliners on the Islanders, especially {P Griffin Reinhart} and {P Calvin De Haan} will lose out having Leddy in front of them now.
