MTL/VAN - Raphael Diaz for Dale Weise

Mason Payne Monday, February 03, 2014 Alexander Edler, Dale Weise, Kevin Bieksa, Montreal Canadiens, nhl news, nhl trade deadline, Raphael Diaz, Vancouver Canucks

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Bernard Brault

The Montreal Canadiens and Vancouver Canucks were involved in a minor trade when Raphael Diaz was traded for Dale Weise. Diaz is a second pairing defenceman who is good at blocking shots, moving the puck and killing penalties. Dale Weise is a fourth line right winger who can cycle the puck.

At first glance, it appears that the Vancouver Canucks won this trade. Habs GM Marc Bergevin got rid of Diaz because he was surpassed on the depth chart and no longer fitting on the team. The Canadiens had no intentions of re-signing the upcoming unrestricted free agent and got something in return, even if it was only a fourth liner in Weise.

With the addition of another defenceman, look for the Vancouver Canucks to trade Kevin Bieksa or Alex Edler before the 2014 NHL trade deadline.