The Chicago Blackhawks got most of their shopping done last week, but as the NHL’s trade deadline approaches, several teams looking to compete with the Hawks for a Stanley Cup title strengthened their cases.
The Dallas Stars were one of those teams, as they made a move to acquire defensive help for a struggling blue line. Defenseman Kris Russell, whose contract expires at the end of the season, is heading to the Lone Star State as part of a swap with the Calgary Flames, who acquired two prospects and a second round draft pick from Dallas.
The Colorado Avalanche, currently hanging onto the second wild card spot in the Western Conference, were also active, acquiring two players for the stretch run. The big name they brought aboard was Mikkel Boedker, whom they acquired from the Arizona Coyotes. In exchange, the Avalanche sent veteran forward Alex Tanguay and two other players, with Conner Bleackley and Kyle Wood also heading to Phoenix.
FInally, the Anaheim Ducks got into the fray as well, picking up former Blackhawks center Brandon Pirri in a trade with the Florida Panthers. The Panthers, who are run by former Hawks G.M. Dale Tallon, acquired a sixth round pick in the swap.
The Los Angeles Kings also finished up their shopping late last week, picking up Rob Scuderi in a trade with the Blackhawks and bringing aboard Kris Versteeg in a swap with the Carolina Hurricanes.
The Blackhawks did make a minor move on Monday, acquiring goaltender Drew MacIntyre from the Hurricanes. In exchange, the Hawks sent defensive prospect Dennis Robertson to Raleigh.
