DUCKS ADD WHITNEY
The Anaheim Ducks acquired defenseman Ryan Whitney from the Pittsburgh Penguins for wingers Chris Kunitz and Eric Tangradi.
What does it give the Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks were in desperate need of acquiring a blueliner under contract, since Chris Pronger was the only one prior to the arrival of Whitney. He is young enough to improve his defensive play, which has been sub-par this season, and he adds a lot of offense from the back end in Southern California. This move could trigger more moves for Ducks GM Bob Murray, especially involving either Pronger or captain Scott Niedermayer.
What does it give the Pittsburgh Penguins
The Penguins were also desperate but, in their case, it was to add wingers to the fold. Kunitz should add immediate help at left wing, as he will probably line up next to captain Sidney Crosby. Tangradi is probably the key to this trade, as he is a budding power forward and potential second top-six winger in this deal for Pittsburgh. The Pens have enough offensive rearguards to cover for the loss of Whitney, especially if Kris Letang and Alex Goligoski fully develop.
Fantasy impact
