Breaking news - Karlis Skrastins has been dealt to the Panthers along with a 3rd round pick for Ruslan Salei. I don’t remember much about Salei (he’s the guy who had that big hit on Modano a few years back, right?). I don’t care how good (or bad) Salei is, Skrastins was in a desperate need of a change of scenery. And I no longer have to hear the “Skrastins is a scratch” joke again!
I’m curious, though - I can’t imagine there’s any way Salei will make it to Calgary for tonight. The team was already down to 6 healthy defensemen. I wonder if they can recall Boychuk or someone similar in time to play tonight…
More on Salei:
He’s a former 1st round pick (9th overall in 1996).
His salary is $3,025,000 and I believe he’s signed for two more years after this one (meaning he makes about $600,000 more than Karlis).
He’s listed as 6′1, 212 - almost identical to Skrastins.
The Sportsnet scouting report:
Assets: Plays a mean and nasty game from behind the blueline. Can hit with the very best in the game. Is well liked in the locker room.
Flaws: Does go overboard with his hits on occasion, resulting in discipline issues. Will occasionally make bad decisions with the puck in the defensive zone.
Essentially, a meaner, harder-hitting version of Skrastins. I’ll take that.
Oh, and he has 23 points…which would tie him with Liles for tops on our team.
Salei is currently wearing #24 for the Panthers, and wore that with the Mighty Ducks as well. It should be available as it was last worn by Antti Laaksonen.
He’s a left handed shot but I couldn’t tell you what side of the ice he plays.
He has got to be a better skater than Skrastins by default. He has got to be better at positioning than Skrastins by default. He’s got to be more physical on the puck carrier than Skrastins by default.
If he’s conservative and physical and can pass well enough to have that many points then he’s a steal.
FOOTE IS OFFICIALLY AN AV AGAIN!