One of the most talked about players on the trade block today has been Tampa Bay Lightning forward Martin St. Louis. The New York Rangers have landed the former Art Ross Trophy winner Wednesday in exchange for Ryan Callahan, a 2015 1st-round pick and a 2014 2nd-round pick.
So far this season, St. Louis is tied for 8th in the NHL in scoring with 29 goals and 61 points throughout 62 games. The 38-year old forward has been one of the biggest talks especially after Tampa Bay GM Steve Yzerman left St. Louis off Team Canada’s original roster the 2014 Olympics. Although, he ended up being a replacement for injured teammate Steven Stamkos.
The Rangers are currently tied for third in the Metropolitan Division and have been looking for an offensive spark as of late.
Callahan has been mentioned as well and it was uncertain if New York was going to trade their captain or not before the 3 p.m. ET deadline. He has tallied 11 goals and 25 points in 45 games this season.
With Stamkos returning Thursday night for the Lightning, it is probable that Callahan will replace St. Louis on the top line. Tampa Bay is also sitting in third place in the Atlantic Division.
The structure of the deal also states if the New York Rangers get to the Conference Finals in the playoffs, then the 2014 2nd-round pick will become a 1st-round pick. If Callahan stays with the Lightning, then New York will receive Tampa Bay’s 2nd-round pick in 2015 and the Lightning would get the Rangers’ 7th-pick in 2015.