AVs NAB GRATTON
The Colorado Avalanche acquired forward Chris Gratton, defenseman Ossi Vaananen and a second-round draft pick in 2005 from the Phoenix Coyotes in exchange for defensemen Derek Morris and Keith Ballard.
What does it give the Colorado Avalanche
More grit and more depth for the playoffs. Gratton is in the last year of his deal with the Coyotes (so could be a rental) and never seemed to really fit in with the team after being acquired late last year. Like recently-acquired Matt Barnaby, Gratton is a player who is quick to throw the gloves off but can also score a clutch goal--qualities sorely lacking in Colorado this year, especially considering the liberties other teams have taken with them this year. Gratton has never fulfilled the potential that made him the Lightning's third-overall draft pick in 1993, but he did score 30 goals in 1996. Vaananen is also a tough guy. He won't replace Morris' punch from the blueline, but will provide plenty of punches to opposing players in the crease. Adding a second-round pick in 2005 is a major bonus.
What does it give the Phoenix Coyotes
Yet another talented youngster who didn't pan out for his team. Still just 25, Morris has been considered one of the NHL's next great defenseman for a few years now. While he hasn't been a washout, he also hasn't become the star many expected after his promising start in Calgary. However, he could blossom in Phoenix, a club that seems intent on adding young firepower but not so interested in the defensive liabilities of the players they're stockpiling. As for Ballard, the 'Yotes acquire another top-notch offensive rearguard--and arguably Colorado's top prospect. With Wayne Gretzky at the switch, Phoenix appears to be heading towards all-O, no-D approach.
Fantasy impact
