Captain Swap: Martin St. Louis Traded To Rangers For Ryan Callahan And Draft Picks
BOSTON (CBS) - It looks like there is finally a winner in the Martin St. Louis Sweepstakes, and it's the New York Rangers. According to TSN's Bob McKenzie, the Blueshirts are sending their captain Ryan Callahan, a first-round pick and a second-rounder for the veteran winger.
St. Louis has been putting together an impressive season, notching 29 goals and 32 assists in 62 games, many of which came without superstar Steven Stamkos on the Lightning power play. There had reportedly been friction between Marty and GM Steve Yzerman though, after St. Louis had been snubbed from Team Canada's original Olympic roster. Yzerman released a statement this afternoon, saying "We'd like to thank Marty for everything he has done on and off the ice during his outstanding 13-year career in Tampa Bay. He has been one of the greatest players in the organization's history but in the end we honored his request today. We wish him and his family the best of luck as he continues his career in New York."
On the other side, the Rangers and Callahan had been having a well-documented dispute when it came to a contract extension. The center who is often praised for his intangibles has only managed to rack up 11 goals and 14 assists this season. It remains to be seen whether or not Tampa Bay will be able to lock up Callahan with a long-term deal.
This trade will have major implications in regards to the Bruins and the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Right now the Bolts trail Boston by 10 points in the Atlantic Division, and the Rangers are sitting at third in the Metropolitan Division.
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