Tue, Feb 27, 2007 at 5:00pm

FLAMES ADD BLUELINER HALE

The Calgary Flames acquired defenseman David Hale from the New Jersey Devils and a fifth-round draft pick in 2007 for a third-round draft pick in 2007.

What does it give the Calgary Flames
The former first-rounder brings size (6-foot-2, 215 pounds) and has now spent three seasons in New Jersey's stifling system, so you know he's well schooled in defensive hockey. With a glut of quality blueliners ahead of him, some may think he's destined for the minors, but GM Darryl Sutter thinks Hale has what it takes to step right in it, right now.

What does it give the New Jersey Devils
With the Devils constantly facing salary cap issues, every move they make seems to be a smoke-and-mirrors act. By moving Hale, they get a pick and likely create space for the eventual return of rearguard Richard Matvichuk.

Fantasy impact