THEODORE FOR AEBISCHER
The Colorado Avalanche acquired goaltender Jose Theodore from the Montreal Canadiens for goaltender David Aebischer.
What does it give the Colorado Avalanche
Avalanche GM Pierre Lacroix is obviously a Yogi Berra fan, because he hopes this deal turns into deja vu all over again. In 1995, the Avs acquired Patrick Roy from Montreal and went on to win two Stanley Cups. Now, the Avs add Theodore--a former Hart and Vezina trophy winner--to the fold. The catch? Theodore is out for 6-to-8 weeks due to a broken heel. So, for now, the Avs will have to make do with rookie Peter Budaj and Kazak 'tender Vitali Kolesnik until Theodore returns. This move is clearly a high-risk/high-reward deal for Lacroix, who has a history of coming up roses in trades like these.
What does it give the Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens needed closure in the Theodore situation, and finally they have it. They also get major salary-cap relief for both this season and down the road. Moreover, Aebischer is a capable NHLer who may step in as the starter if Cristobal Huet struggles down the stretch. Still, this move marks the end of an era in Montreal, as the club's poster child is now off to Denver. The future between the pipes in Montreal will now rest on the shoulders of young Carey Price, the No. 5 pick overall in the 2005 draft. Until he's ready, the Habs will go with a Huet-Aebischer tandem.
Fantasy impact
