The Dallas Stars have added some forward depth on deadline day. This afternoon, the Detroit Red Wings traded forward Vladislav Namestnikov to Dallas in exchange for a 2024 fourth-round draft pick.
Confirming #TexasHockey getting Vladislav Namestnikov from #LGRW in exchange for a 4th round pick.
First to report: @KevinWeekes
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) March 21, 2022
Vladislav Namestnikov Traded By Detroit Red Wings
Namestnikov, a 29-year old forward, provides Dallas with a depth forward specializing in solid defensive play. Namestnikov is currently in the final year of his contract, making $2,000,000 AAV. Dallas will be the sixth stop in Namestnikov’s journeyman career, and his fifth team in the past three seasons.
For the Dallas Stars, a team that appeared to be trade deadline sellers just a few weeks ago, this move provides them with some bottom-six depth up front. For a relatively low price, Dallas has acquired a shut-down defensive forward. Dallas has been struggling to find someone to fit this role and has thankfully found it on deadline day. Namestnikov provides both stellar defensive capability and increased depth in the forward rotation for this Stars team. Based on this move, all signs point to the Stars going all-in on making a playoff run this season.
A Fan-Favorite Leaves Detroit
The most unfortunate thing about this trade is that Detroit loses a beloved player. Namestnikov has been quoted in the media as loving the city of Detroit, and the fans certainly repaid that love.
Seems like Yzerman held out as long as possible on Namestnikov. A 4th in return is #fine.
He’ll be missed, though. Heart & soul guy that loves Detroit. Would love to see him return in free agency. #LGRW https://t.co/88Yhon7Zmw
— Ryan Hana (@RyanHanaWWP) March 21, 2022
Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman is in the midst of rebuilding this Red Wings squad, and with Namestnikov set to be a UFA this summer, Yzerman decided to trade him rather than let him walk. This is a savvy move by a general manager with a proven track record of success.
Overall, this trade is not making large ripples in the ocean that is the NHL, but it should have an immediate impact on a Stars team hungry to get back to the postseason.
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