(SB Nation, Travis Hughes) – The Columbus Blue Jackets traded Samuel Pahlsson to the Vancouver Canucks on 2012 NHL Trade Deadline day, picking up two fourth round picks in return for the defensive forward.
Pahlsson, 34, has Cup experience with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007. He has a cap hit of $2.65 million and will be an unrestricted free agent. The Canucks were able to add salary at the deadline after placing defenseman Keith Ballard on long-term injured reserve Sunday.
Pahlsson has 11 points in 61 games for the Blue Jackets this season. He’ll instantly provide a boost to the bottom of the Canucks unit of forwards, providing a strong defensive presence. He can play minutes against top competition and should especially help the Canucks with depth come playoff time.
It’s a bit surprising that the Blue Jackets didn’t get more than two draft picks for Pahlsson, considering other teams were reportedly interested in his services. But there’s not much bargaining room there when talking about a player on an expiring contract.
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