Calgary traded for Jay Bouwmeester’s rights today, giving up Jordan Leopold and a 3rd round draft pick. This does not necessarily mean Jay-Bo will be on the Flames in 2009-2010 but it does give them the best opportunity to get him signed before he goes into unrestricted free agency. It was clear that the Panthers were not going to re-sign him so the deal was made. Source: TSN.ca

Calgary Fantasy Impact: If Bouwmeester signs with the Flames, then they have another bona fide stud on the backend in addition to Dion Phaneuf. Bouwmeester is pretty underrated because he’s toiled down in Florida for his entire career, where hockey is not exactly the #1 attraction. That being said, Bouwmeester is always near the top of the league in average ice time per game and he frequently is matched up against the opposition’s best forwards. Bouwmeester has not yet broken out to have that really great offensive season but his strong defense makes up for whatever he lacks in offense. It remains to be seen exactly what will happen with Bouwmeester at this point.

Florida Fantasy Impact: Similar to Bouwmeester, Leopold is a good young player who is also going to be a free agent. Florida did get a draft pick along with a player, but as for fantasy managers, the impact for Leopold is similar to Bouw’s at this point considering it is uncertain whether he will actually stay with the team who owns his rights at the moment. If Leopold does sign with the Panthers, then he will certainly be looked to fill in for the departed Bouwmeester who was their defensive stalwart and also counted on for substantial offense. Leopold has been highly touted in the past as well but he has yet to take it to the next level. Keep an eye on this situation, for both players.