DEVILS SEND SAMI VATANEN TO CAROLINA
The Carolina Hurricanes acquired defenseman Sami Vatanen from the New Jersey Devils for forward Janne Kuokkanen, defenseman Fredrik Claesson and a conditional fourth-round draft pick in 2020.
What does it give the Carolina Hurricanes
The Hurricanes badly needed a right-shooting defenseman after losing both Dougie Hamilton and Brett Pesce to injury. Enter Vatanen, who will provide experience and solid play to a Carolina team with deep playoff aspirations once again this spring.
What does it give the New Jersey Devils
Kuokkanen, who turns 22, looks like he might become a nice fit in New Jersey. He is not a flashy player but his versatility and all-around ability could help him earn regular playing time with the Devils. Jersey will also receive a D-man Claesson and a pick in this move.
Fantasy impact
Vatanen might be a nice late-season pickup in some fantasy formats, although he does need to get healthy first and foremost. Kuokkanen looks like a fantasy sleeper after this move to New Jersey. There should be an opportunity for him to become an NHL regular fairly soon. Claesson has negligible fantasy value.
Player focus
New Jersey Devils
a conditional fourth-round draft pick in 2020
