Paul Thompson, Graham Black to Panthers: Latest Trade Details and Reaction

The Florida Panthers announced they have struck a deal with the New Jersey Devils to acquire forwards Paul Thompson and Graham Black on Friday. 

New Jersey is receiving a 2018 second-round pick and center Marc Savard's contract in return.

George Richards of the Miami Herald shared his thoughts on the trade, which should help Florida with cap space:

The 38-year-old Savard is entering the final year of a seven-year contract he signed in 2010. He was owed $575,000 next year, according to Spotrac. Savard has not played since the 2010-11 season due to ongoing concussion symptoms.

Thompson is a 27-year-old right wing who played his first year of hockey last year, according to Hockey-Reference.com. He played three games for New Jersey last year but did not accumulate any points, but had 35 points in 56 games with the Albany Devils in the AHL.

Black, a former fifth-round pick of the Devils, played in 50 games with Albany last year but posted only nine points in that time. 

The Panthers made this move to shed some salary and get some potential youth talent in return. Black is 23 years old and will have room to grow in the minor leagues. Thompson has minimal NHL experience but can be a utility body for the third or fourth line.

They weren't getting any more value from Savard's contract, and his contract should get New Jersey back to the salary-cap floor while getting a quality second-round pick. It's a trade that benefits both sides.