The Winnipeg Jets have swung an in-division deal, trading former 1st round choice of the Pittsburgh Penguins Angelo Esposito (20th overall, 2007, 2011-12 cap hit of $916,667 if playing in the NHL), to the Florida Panthers for Kenndal McArdle, himself a former first round choice of the Panthers (2005, 20th overall, 2011-12 NHL cap hit of $803,250).
McArdle has played 33 games for the Panthers over the past three seasons, registering 1 goal and 2 assists.
Instant Analysis: More than anything, this is a trade to see if a change of scenery can jump-start the careers of these former first round selections. So far, their NHL careers can be summed up as insignificant, but both Florida and Winnipeg are hoping that new surroundings can provide new results.
As Illegal Curve’s Richard Pollock tweeted (@ICrichyp), “McArdle is more NHL ready than Esposito and can compete for a spot right away. The Jets are creating nice competition for the bottom six forward spots.”
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