PREDS, WILD SWAP FORWARDS
The Nashville Predators acquired forward Mikael Granlund from the Minnesota Wild for winger Kevin Fiala.
What does it give the Nashville Predators
The Predators were expected to make a big move before the deadline, and they were apparently in on a bigger name such as Mark Stone. In the end, they settled for Granlund (who is a solid, all-around forward who can play both center and wing). He will give Nashville a boost as they attempt to make it back to the Stanley Cup finals. Granlund essentially replaces Fiala in the lineup and should provide more consistency night in and night out.
What does it give the Minnesota Wild
Wild General Manager Paul Fenton used to be David Poile's understudy in Nashville, so he knows Fiala very well and clearly wanted him in the fold. He also saved a bit of salary by moving Granlund out for Fiala, who becomes a restricted free agent on July 1. Fiala has a chance to become a key ingredient with the Wild, and look for him to receive more ice time with his new team. The Wild's chances of making the playoffs took a hit here, though.
Fantasy impact
Both Granlund and Fiala should be helped by this trade. Both players have a chance to make a fantasy impact, though Granlund is probably the better bet in the short term. Fiala has greater keeper value after the deal.
