Phoenix Coyotes add defensive depth by acquiring Antoine Vermette from Columbus Blue Jackets -NHL
Phoenix Coyotes termed that they were not going to be taking part in trading and any acquiring before the National Hockey League (NHL) February 27 trade deadline, but kept it low key and picked up Columbus Blue Jackets’ centre player, Antoine Vermette.
Antoine Vermette, a veteran 29-year-old centre, might not seem like the average physical player in the NHL but he certainly packs a major punch for his size.
He is known for being more of a defensive natured player instead of the forward focused position that he plays, which is certainly what Phoenix was looking for to be a part of their club.
Phoenix general manager, Don Maloney, made the announcement on Wednesday, February 22, 2012.
"We are extremely pleased to acquire Antoine," GM Maloney said. "He is a smart, skilled, two-way centre who will be a great addition to our line-up."
He was exchanged for a couple of future draft picks and goaltender, Curtis McElhinney.
One positive aspect about being transferred to the Phoenix club is that Vermette, who has spent nearly four straight seasons with Columbus Blue Jackets, will be making a run for the playoffs with the club and could provide that extra edge they need to go deep.
"I love that, I truly enjoy it and can't wait to get going," Vermette said. "It was a similar situation for me when I was dealt to Columbus from Ottawa. It was the same situation ... every game was a playoff game and meant so much. That's the fun part of hockey being in that part of the year and competing for those points and looking for the playoffs, it's really exciting.”
The former 55th overall pick during round-two of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Ottawa Senators, Vermett has played 60 games with Columbus up until now in this season and has 27 points (8 goals, 19 assists) along with 12 minutes in penalty time.
Overall, he boasts a 600 games played record with 319 points (141 goals, 178 assists), making him a befitting addition on the Phoenix Coyotes roster.
Antoine Vermette is currently on a five-year long contract, worth an estimated $18.75 million and will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2014-2015 regular season.
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