From Long Beach to South Beach
Los Angeles, CA - The Los Angeles Kings today have announced the trade of Veteran defender Mike VanRyn to the Florida Panthers in exhange for defender Andrej Meszaros and young power forward Martin Hanzal. Changing address along with VanRyn is young forward Brandon Bochenski and defensive prospect Peter Harrold.
"Well it is tough to see a player of VanRyn's caliber leave. But we think that Andrej is ready to make a name for himself in this league and we hope he will take this opportunity to do as such." said Coach Mike Keenan when asked about the move. "We wish all the best to Mike in Florida and would like to thank him for the contribution to the club and community".
Dion Phaneuf was reached for comment at his palatial estate in Malibu and had the following to remark, "I am kind of shocked to see Mike go. We went through a lot of battles together. I haven't played with Andrej but I hear he is a talented player with great work ethic. He should fit in well with the identity of our blueline. I am looking forward to seeing what he can do on the ice".
After the move the Los Angeles Kings blueline shapes up as follows...
Dion Phaneuf - John-Michael Liles
Andrej Meszaros - Jordan Leopold
Jarret Stoll - Brent Seabrook
Newest member of the Kings blueline Andrej Meszaros
Kings Korner: It is anticipated that Meszaros will now be give a chance to form the top pairing on defence with Dion Phaneuf. Jaroslav Hlinka was seen today in practice with the third line in anticipation of receiving more ice time in light of Bochenski's departure. Martin Hanzal will be roomed with Peter Mueller at the Mansion in order to acclimate himself to the City of Angels.