Last year Derek Morris moved from the Phoenix Coyotes to the New York Rangers at the trade deadline. Today, the Boston Bruins moved him for a 4th round draft pick in 2011. The 31-year-old moves back to the desert as the Coyotes look to add some more depth on their blue line.
Morris played on the second pairing for the offensively starved Bruins and figures to play on the second or third pairing for the Coyotes. Zbynek Michalek or Adrian Aucoin will lose some powerplay time as they both man the right side with right-handed shots. Morris brings sturdy veteran d-man who can play the point likely will play on either the first or second powerplay unit and should receive a boost in value. The Coyotes offense sits 21st in team goals compared to the dead last Bruins. The Coyotes look to add more offense to their defensive system and Morris should help in that department.
He also should be happier on the Coyotes as Steve Zipay of Newsday pointed out via Twitter:
“As a Ranger (briefly), he spoke fondly about the desert: Bs Derek Morris back to ‘Zona for a 4th”
With Morris gone, the Bruins move Craig Weller, Byron Bitz and a second round pick for Dennis Seidenberg. The veteran defenseman replaces Morris on the second powerplay unit instead of Andrew Ference or Matt Hunwick. Dennis Wideman will remain playing with Zdeno Chara full time with Johnny Boychuk or Hunwick watching from the sidelines.
With Seidenberg and Leopold gone, look for Keaton Ellerby and Jason Garrison to get an extended look with the Panthers. They should receive adequate powerplay time with both veterans playing in greener pastures.
