Sat, Jun 26, 2004 at 12:00pm

BONK, GARON DEALT IN 3-WAY DEAL

In a three-team swap, the Montreal Canadiens acquired center Radek Bonk from the Ottawa Senators, and goaltender Cristobal Huet from the Los Angeles Kings; the Kings acquired goaltender Mathieu Garon and a third-round draft pick in 2004 from the Canadiens and the Ottawa Senators acquired a 3rd round selection in 2004.

What does it give the Montreal Canadiens
In Bonk, the Habs finally land a big center capable of playing against opposing pivots with bulk. However, he's somewhat expensive and far from a proven performer come playoff time. That said, the Czech veteran should have a new lease on life in Montreal, where he won't be asked to play a first-line role. While the Habs lose Garon's potential, they add a quality NHL backup in the likable Huet.

What does it give the Los Angeles Kings
In Garon, the Kings land a bona fide No. 1 netminder for both now and the future. He'll immediately upgrade the starting role from the disappointing Roman Cechmanek, and should blossom on the West Coast. The Kings only dropped 18 positions in the third round with this swap, and replaced Huet's contract with Garon's. Kings GM Dave Taylor did well in securing a quality young netminder.

What does it give the
Payroll flexibility. Without Bonk's contract, the Senators can now focus their attention on securing Dominik Hasek with a multi-year offer and possibly bring back veteran Peter Bondra (the team holds an option on his contract). Bonk was not going to be tendered a qualifying offer before July 1, so in essence the Sens landed an extra draft pick in the deal."

Fantasy impact