James Wisniewski, Petri Kontiola Moved to Anaheim
Dobber Sports
2009-03-04
Chicago has traded James Wisneiwski and Petri Kontiola to Anaheim for Sami Pahlsson.
The Ducks get: a No.3 defenseman who is capable of running a power play. Clearly, the Ducks wanted to shed salary today and cover themselves off for potentially losing Scott Niedermayer in the summer. Next year, with Pronger-Whitney-Wisneiwski, they have a formidable offense from the blue line. They also get a promising, late-blooming pivot in Kontiola
The Blackhawks get: that elite checking-line center that they covet. Pahlsson brings experience and grit in exchange for a young offensive defenseman – which the 'Hawks have an abundance of. Great deal.
Fantasy players impacted: If the acquisition of Ryan Whitney put a nail in Anaheim career of prospect Brian Salcido, then the Wisneiwski acquisition threw dirt on that coffin. Salcido will never crack this lineup. He needs to be moved, or enjoy riding AHL buses.
Wisneiwski's production will increase slightly this year (10%) and a lot next year (20%).
Kontiola was never going to get a shot in Chicago. If Anaheim gives him a look and he performs, he could stay. If not, he goes back to Europe. Simple as that. His value goes up a little as a result.