The Los Angeles Kings traded Peter Budaj, Erik Cernak, a 7th pick in 2017, and a coniditional pick for Ben Bishop and a 5th in 2017 from the Tampa Bay Lightning
The Los Angeles Kings made the first real blockbuster, trading for Ben Bishop and a fifth-round pick. Whether they can hold on to him and Jonathan Quick remains to be seen, but the Kings are officially in the hunt to make the NHL playoffs.
The Tampa Bay Lighting announced on their Twitter that they have officially parted ways with Bishop. They receive a solid back-up in return, with some minor pieces to build for the future. They needed to make a deal as soon as possible, and were able to get some value for their long-time netminder.
We have acquired Peter Budaj, Erik Cernak, & a 2017 seventh-round pick from the @lakings in exchange for Ben Bishop. https://t.co/6aNLtQ4kBU
— Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) February 26, 2017
It will be interesting to see how the offseason plays out. The Kings will not only have financial issues, but the Vegas Golden Knights still have to pick their team. The Kings will have to consider their keepers carefully, and could lose the 30-year goaltender in the process. Not to mention, Bishop is one of the best goalies on the market.
Giving up very little to acquire Bishop, the Kings will certainly take the increased chance at winning the Stanley Cup. They have accomplished similar feats in the past, and will look to repeat their success from 2013-14.
Look for the odds to change drastically, as the Kings try to make another incredible run in the NHL playoffs.
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