The Florida Panthers got some help for their top nine today, acquiring 33-year-old left winger Thomas Vanek from the Detroit Red Wings.
Heading to Detroit is minor-league defenseman Dylan McIlrath and Florida’s third round pick in the 2017 draft. The Red Wings will retain 50% of Vanek’s remaining salary.
In 48 games with Detroit this season Vanek totaled 15 goals and 23 assists. He has scored 331 goals over the course of his career, which began in 2005 with the Buffalo Sabres.
The Cats wanted to add to their forward group with an eye towards the power play and they’ve done it. This is the kind of rental move I can get behind. Well done, front office!