Islanders - Panthers

To Islanders: Fitzgerald

To Panthers: Young and Lowry

The Islanders really must have wanted Fitzgerald as they paid a huge price for him. They must expect him to bcome much higher rated next season, after finishing his captaincy in Predators od NHL. It seems that Panthers made a real killing in this trade. They get a better player for Fitzgerald and also Lowry. Lowry actually stands a chance of getting to play in Florida s they are very weak on the left side. Especially in the penalty killing unit he could fins a place. The Panthers look like big winners here and will do so even next year unless Fitzgerald becomes a new Dallas Drake in the next ratings, which going by NHL performances so far this year he is no way near...

Islanders - Blues

To Islanders: Wregget

To Blues: Dean

The trade benefits both teams. Isles really needed another goalie as they only had two altogether. Wregget may not be a great keeper but he is a solid back up. The Blues have 3 other goalies + they are in hot pursuit of Theodore in the free agency. They dumped Wregget of and strenghtened up their defence somewhat with Dean who is a good defensive defender. The Blues is the team that actually strengthened their team, while Isles got a much needed keeper so that they won't have to forfeit games due to injuries.

Islanders - Blues

To Islanders: Housley and Baron

To Blues: Therien and a 2nd pick

Isles' best defender, Therien, got traded for an aging Housley who somehow sky rocketed in the ratings. Housley's age is what probably made him unwanted in St. Louis. Baron was probably left out of the team with the arrival of Dean. Basically this trade is about Blues wanting to get younger. They traded for a good solid Therien and they also got a pick out of the deal. Isles got older but that was probably a very well thought of move by a team that is known for their prospects. They must have felt they needed some experience and some leadership to giude the youthful players of their team. Also Housley will be a great benefit for the in their powerplay, something they desperatly needed.