New York Islanders acquire James Wisniewski
The New York Islanders have traded a conditional third-round draft pick to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defenseman James Wisniewski. Wisniewski was signed by the Ducks to a one-year $3.2 million deal as a restricted free agent, just hours before he was traded away.
The Ducks were forced to trade away the young defender in order to maintain a large berth between them and the salary cap. The Ducks have still not come to terms with the restricted free agent and superstar youngster Bobby Ryan, and were concerned that Wisniewski’s $3.2 million contract would put them above their budget.
The loss of Wisniewski will be a serious blow to the Anaheim organization, as they lack young capable defencemen, and have a rather weak defence in general. The Wisniewski departure leaves them one man short at the back end, a position they will not be able to fill until they have locked up Ryan.
The Islanders will gladly accept Wisniewski to their defensive group as they continue to stockpile youngsters, in their attempt to rebuild the franchise.
Wisniewski should play a major role on the team next year, and becomes their second highest paid defenseman next to all-star Mark Streit.
The Islanders were in serious need of some bulking up at the back end, something Wisniewski should bring in spades. The 26-year-old American brings grit and offense to the New York blue line, and will likely log both power play and penalty kill minutes. Last year with the Ducks Wisniewski finished seventh on the squad in scoring and second among defenseman, behind only Scott Niedermayer.
Last season Wisniewski averaged over 24 minutes a game, as the Ducks fourth defender. He should see even more ice time in the Islanders top unit next year.
Wisniewski was drafted 156th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the fifth round of the 2002 National Hockey League entry draft.
Last year with the Ducks he played in 69 games scoring three goals, and 27 assists for 30 points, and was a minus-five on the year.
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