Florida Panthers "Rights" Trade: Mike Duco to Vancouver for Sergei Shirokov

In the second move of the day, the Florida Panthers have sent Mike Duco to Vancouver in exchange for Sergei Shirokov just minutes after trading Kenndal McArdle to Winnipeg. Shirokov has played in 8 games with the Canucks over two seasons, a number that doesn't translate into lack of talent for Shirokov but as a testament to the amazing depth of the Vancouver franchise. Shirokov played in 76 games for the Manitoba Moose last season racking up 58 points (22G/36A) and had ten points in 14 playoff games (7G/3A). Duco scored 31 points (20G/11A) in 67 games with the Rochester Americans.

Update: The Panthers have also acquired Keith Seabrook (Brent Seabrook's brother) from Calgary for Jordan Henry. Stick tap to flpanther360 for the update.

More after the jump.

Unfortunately, Shirokov recently signed a three year deal with CSKA Moscow of the Kontinental Hockey League in Europe, so unless Dale is able to pry him away, he'll simply have to develop in Russia. However, it seems highly unlikely that Tallon would trade away a good, physical player in Mike Duco for the rights of a player he cant even sign. This deal doesn't seem to be complete, especially since Shirokov could challenge Jack Skille or Michal Repik for the 4th line right wing spot.

San Antonio will likely miss Mike Duco, as he was a hard working gritty player who would drop the gloves with anyone. Since Duco was an RFA who never accepted his qualifying deal, negotiations might have gone downhill and Duco asked to be traded. Again, we wish Mike all the best in Vancouver and will hopefully welcome Shirokov to the team.

Shirokov's only NHL goal against an old friend, Craig Anderson