VISHNEVSKI TO ATLANTA
The Atlanta Thrashers acquired defenseman Vitaly Vishnevski from the Anaheim Ducks for left wing Karl Stewart, a second-round draft pick in 2007 and conditional fourth-round draft pick in 2008.
What does it give the Atlanta Thrashers
In Vishnevski, the Thrashers add a stay-at-home defenseman who may fill a top-four role and provide more stability on the back end in his new surroundings. He's an upgrade over Shane Hnidy, though similarly offensively challenged.
What does it give the Anaheim Ducks
Vishnevski was one of the senior members of the Ducks, but lost his place with the club following the arrival of Joe DiPenta and Sean O'Donnell last season. Plus, he was no longer needed after the acquisition of Chris Pronger this off-season. Therefore, GM Brian Burke decided to dump his recently-awarded $1.55 million salary. Look for Stewart to be a role player in Anaheim. The second-round pick will be the key to the deal from a Ducks perspective.
Fantasy impact
