Zbynek Michalek to Blues: Latest Trade Details, Comments and Reaction

For Zbynek Michalek, it wasn't really a matter of if he would be traded so much as when the deal would go down. That came Monday, as the St. Louis Blues acquired the defenseman from the Arizona Coyotes.  

According to the Blues' official website, "The St. Louis Blues have acquired defenseman Zbynek Michalek and a conditional third round pick from the Arizona Coyotes in exchange for prospect Maxim Letunov."

Pierre LeBrun of ESPN adds some details on the deal:

John Buccigross has more on Maxim Letunov:

Michalek has appeared in 53 games for the Coyotes this season, scoring two goals, adding six assists and having a plus-minus of minus-six. Per ESPN, he's 12th in the NHL with 130 blocked shots this season. 

He gives the Blues a veteran defenseman for their playoff push and added depth on the blue line as the team looks to bring home a Stanley Cup this season. While he is potentially a rental, since he'll be an unrestricted free agent after the season, he should be a key contributor for the Blues this season once he returns to action (he's been out for over two weeks with an upper-body injury).

The Blues clearly thought he was worth the price, however, and if they hoist the Stanley Cup this season, they'll be correct in that assessment.