The Boston Bruins have today traded veteran defenseman Brent Sopel to the San Jose Sharks for a 2nd round pick. Sopel was added to the club at the very last second of last season's trade deadline as cover at the back. The useful veteran, with highly appreciated shot-blocking abilities, became available as the Bruins had slipped in play during the last couple of weeks.
"We just felt picking up a solid pick for soon-to-be UFA Brent Sopel was an opportunity we couldn't pass on", said team spokesman Bill Ranford. He continued by saying "Had the team been in a better position to compete for the Cup, we'd obviously not be making this kind of deal. Sopel is the kind of veteran every playoff team would like to add for a long playoff run, and we wish him all the best".
With the acquisition of the 2nd round pick, the Bruins now have two 2nd round picks (the other acquired from Toronto). However, the Bruins would like to add a 1st round pick if possible before the trade deadline. "We're not quitting and we're still in the playoff picture. This doesn't really change anything from our game plan heading into the season. But for obvious reasons we want to do whatever we can to put ourselves in a better position for next season", said Ranford. It's rumored Sopel has decided to sign with a Russian KHL team next season, making the decision easier for the Bruins who would lose him for nothing.
