New York Rangers acquire Eric Staal from Carolina Hurricanes

The New York Rangers have made a big move ahead of Monday’s NHL Trade Deadline, acquiring Carolina Hurricanes centre Eric Staal for two second round picks and prospect Aleski Saarela.

Staal is a Stanley Cup champion, winning the Cup with the Canes in 2006. He currently has 10 goals and 23 assists on the year, which is his worst offensive year since he was a rookie. When he’s at his best, Staal is a number one centre capable of scoring 40 goals and 100 points in a season. The Rangers are in need of a number one centre and hope a change of scenery will help Staal regain his form.

It’s a win win situation for both teams. The Canes wanted to deal Staal so they didn’t lose him for nothing in free agency. The Rangers add to their centre depth and are gearing up for the playoff run. Carolina will have nine draft picks in each of the next two drafts and their prospect pool is growing.

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