Tue, Feb 27, 2007 at 1:00pm

WARD TO BEANTOWN

The Boston Bruins acquired defenseman Aaron Ward from the New York Rangers for defenseman Paul Mara.

What does it give the Boston Bruins
Aaron Ward is a top-four defenseman at a fairly reasonable price ($2.75 million). He adds size, toughness and Stanley Cup experience to a Boston team that often lacks confidence. The Bruins add stability to a youthful backend and Ward will help take a load off captain Zdeno Chara, who leads the league in TOI at 28:33 per game.

What does it give the New York Rangers
Mara has struggled badly this season after posting some solid seasons with the Coyotes. He'll help get the puck to New York's skilled forwards, a soft spot on the Ranger blueline that is thin on talent.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Boston Bruins

Aaron Ward D

New York Rangers

Paul Mara D