NHL Trade Rumors: Panthers to acquire Thomas Vanek from Red Wings
The Florida Panthers have reportedly traded for Detroit Red Wings forward Thomas Vanek.
Entering the 2017 NHL Trade Deadline, the Detroit Red Wings had one of the best rental wings available in Thomas Vanek. For whatever reason, the market never truly developed for him. However, Detroit still managed to trade him for someone. According to Elliotte Friedman, the Florida Panthers have acquired Vanek for a third round pick and defenseman Dylan McIlrath.
FLA gives up Dylan McIlrath and a third round pick to DET for Thomas Vanek. DET retains 50 per cent of salary.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) March 1, 2017
It’s really weird the Red Wings were able to get a second round pick and a third round pick for Brendan Smith, but only a third rounder for Vanek. Still, this is a nice addition for Detroit. It certainly helps jump start their long awaited rebuild. With the Red Wings’ record playoff streak likely over, they can finally start rebuilding their team.
For the Panthers, this is an excellent acquisition. Florida gets one of the most talented scoring wings in the NHL for a very reasonable price. Vanek fits in anywhere on their top three lines, providing offense to a team who needs it. He could also help ignite their stagnant power play.
A 12 year veteran, Vanek has 254 goals and 243 assists for 497 points in 598 games. After getting bought out last offseason by the Minnesota Wild, he rebuilt his value with the Red Wings. This season, Vanek has 15 goals and 23 assists for 38 points in 48 games. 11 of his points have come on the power play.
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The Panthers have been playing much better hockey as of late. Getting Jonathan Huberdeau and Aleksander Barkov back healthy has given them new life. James Reimer’s been outstanding for them lately. In a weak Atlantic Division, the Panthers still have a real chance of making the postseason. Acquiring Vanek makes them a much better team. After a rough start to their season, Florida’s pushing to be a dark horse Stanley Cup contender.