NOKELAINEN FOR MONTADOR
The Anaheim Ducks acquired forward Petteri Nokelainen from the Boston Bruins for defenseman/winger Steve Montador.
What does it give the Anaheim Ducks
Nokelainen was a first-round pick (by the Islanders back in 2004, No. 16 overall), but he hasn't really panned out as expected. He is also currently out indefinitely because of an eye injury, so the Ducks are clearly looking at him as a player who may still realize his potential. Despite his upside Nokelainen has never really dominated at any pro level, and at 23 he may not live up to his earlier lofty expectations (but the Ducks obviously see something in him).
What does it give the Boston Bruins
Boston has a lot of young talent on the blueline but can still use another solid vet, so bringing in the tough and somewhat skilled Montador (who can also play some wing) is a nice addition. He will take some of the pressure off big Zdeno Chara to be the team's enforcer down the stretch and in the playoffs, and he can chip in the odd goal and assist as well. An added bonus: his very affordable contract is up after this season.
Fantasy impact
