Tue, Oct 22, 2019 at 11:05pm

ALEKSI SAARELA FOR IAN McCOSHEN

The Florida Panthers acquired forward Aleksi Saarela from the Chicago Blackhawks for defenseman Ian McCoshen.

What does it give the Florida Panthers
In Saarela, the Panthers acquired a skilled forward who has played well in the AHLbut has yet to make an impact at the highest level. The 22-year-old now joins his fourth NHL organization and needs to take that final step and become an NHL regular fairly soon.

What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
The 24-year-old McCoshen has appeared in 60 NHL contests with Florida but lost his job in the big league during training camp earlier this year. He also spent a lot of time in the AHL last season. He provides defensive depth for the Blackhawks and may get the call in 2019-20.

Fantasy impact
Saarela has some fantasy keeper appeal but he has not yet played in the National Hockey League. Florida may be a good landing spot for him, so keep an eye on him down on the farm. He just may open some eyes within the Panthers organization this season. As for McCoshen, there is nothing to see here.

Player focus

Chicago Blackhawks

Ian McCoshen D

Florida Panthers

Aleksi Saarela C/LW