SOPEL TO LONG ISLAND
The New York Islanders acquired defenseman Brent Sopel from the Vancouver Canucks for a conditional draft pick in 2006.
What does it give the New York Islanders
After losing Adrian Aucoin, the Isles decided to trade for an Aucoin clone in Sopel. While the latter isn't as consistent in his own end as the former, Sopel should still provide quality power play production at the right point. He'll definitely see top-four minutes on Long Island and will probably be paired with either fellow newcomer Alexei Zhitnik or Janne Niinimaa.
What does it give the Vancouver Canucks
The Canucks already lost Marek Malik to free agency, so obviously dealing Sopel is for salary-cap purposes. Expect another blueline acquisition shortly. The conditional draft pick will reportedly be in Round 3 if Sopel only lasts one season with the Islanders, but could turn into a second rounder should the Isles sign Sopel to a multi-year contract.
Fantasy impact
