'HAWKS ADD ERIXON, MOVE MORIN TO CBJ
The Chicago Blackhawks acquired defenseman Tim Erixon from the Columbus Blue Jackets for winger Jeremy Morin.
What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
Over the past few months Chicago has quietly been adding talented--but unproven--depth defensemen in trades, including {P David Rundblad} and {P T.J. Brennan}. Erixon is the latest pickup with that in mind, and he's probably more polished than the other two mentioned. Erixon should be able to provide the Blackhawks with third-pairing duty right away, and he's young enough that his game should still keep developing fairly significantly.
What does it give the Columbus Blue Jackets
Morin got off to a slow start offensively for Chicago this season, which is probably a key reason he didn't figure into the Blackhawks' plans. He's still a very solid offensive prospect with top-six winger potential, and Columbus can use a player like that right now (especially because of injuries up front). The talented Erixon became expendable due to the Blue Jackets' relative glut of solid defensemen.
Fantasy impact
For Chicago, Erixon's most useful skill right now is his ability to round out the third pairing next to {P Michal Rozsival} as a left-handed shot, so his arrival probably further lessens the minimal fantasy value Rundblad held recently. Erixon's addition also hurts any current value {P Klas Dahlbeck} had, as Dahlbeck has been sent down to the AHL in a related move. For the Blue Jackets, {P Kevin Connauton} and {P Jordan Leopold} will benefit most from Erixon's departure (and Connauton is now a fantasy sleeper). As for Morin, he could see opportunities right away. The Jackets are desperate right now for forwards who can score, and Morin has the goods to push for a significant role. Keep an eye on him.
