Carolina and Anaheim Swap Defensemen

The Carolina Hurricanes added some toughness to their defense core as the team has acquired Jani Hakanpaa from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for once prized prospect Haydn Fleury.

Jani Hakanpaa and a pick from ANA to CAR for Fleury
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) April 12, 2021

Hakanpaa is quietly one of the most physical defensemen in the league as he's near the top of the NHL in hits/blocks combined. The 29-year-old has played 42 games for the Ducks this season, only recording one point, but again, that's not what he's paid to do.

As for Fleury, the former seventh overall pick from the 2014 draft is signed for this season and slated to make $1.3 million next season. He's played in 35 this season for the 'Canes, recording one goal. Fleury wasn't able to find regular playing time in Carolina and now moves to the Ducks and could find himself planted into their top-four.

Great hockey deal for both teams who are heading in opposite directions.