In another low key trade, the Ottawa Senators continued to add depth to their lineup by acquiring Viktor Stalberg.
It cost them a third – round pick but it adds a whole lot of depth that secures the bottom – six forward lines. The Carolina Hurricanes are fully in draft mode as they continue their slide south.
The Swede has nine goals to his name this season in a rather odd season for the Carolina Hurricanes. He won’t add panache or exuberance but some more dependability to the botttom-six.
Seemingly well liked in Carolina, hopefully cementing a solid bottom – six as this team aim to regain some consistency.
Once again, another player who screams of being system compatible. The Sens appear to constantly be searching for the right pieces to fit.
Dorion says Stalberg will bring "an element of speed" and will help penalty kill. #Sens
— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) February 28, 2017
On the plus-side he has one a Stanley Cup, with the Chicago Blackhawks back in 2012/13 and can add some experience on that front. Playing 19 games of that run, he knows what it takes to win.
#Sens acquire Viktor Stalberg for price they should've acquired Alex Burrows for.
— Spencer Blake (@spencerdjblake) February 28, 2017
This is the general feeling of Sens fans, still reeling from Vancouver’s burglary of the Ottawa prospect pool.
Negatives of the trade
Well, it isn’t quite Matt Duchene is it. The Sens are crying out for some offensive flair. As defensive as the system may be, they still have to score some goals.
He’s yet another failed Toronto Maple Leaf draft pick which will only infuse Leaf fans.
Don’t expect points from Stalberg. Averaging 0.35 PPG in 470 NHL games, which naturally declines to 0.21 PPG in the playoffs.
Final Thoughts
A decent trade for the price, given the standard of this year’s draft. It may give the Sens more depth but it doesn’t add goals.
Points are fundamentally needed in this setup, for when the system can’t fully live up to its’ potential.