Montreal (CP) -- The Montreal Canadiens are doing all they can to secure a playoff spot in the heavily guarded Eastern Conference.
Yesterday, the team pulled off a trade in which they hope helps their chances.
The Canadiens traded two-way winger Jan Bulis and two draft picks to the Nashville Predators in exchange for quick winger Andreas Johansson and physical blueliner Shane Hnidy.
"We're really excited about this deal," said Habs assistant GM Bob Gainey. "Johansson brings us more speed and more scoring, while Shane will help lay down the law in our own zone."
Johansson, 32, scored 21 goals and added 24 assists for the Preds this season, and will join Todd White and Ian Laperriere on the team's third line.
"(Andreas) will give us a very well-rounded, tough and two-way line," Gainey said. "We're also going to utilize his offensive abilities on the powerplay."
Hnidy, 29, is not likely to see much action unless a spot opens up on the team's current defensive core. He skated in just 6 games with Nashville this year.
-- -- --
Meanwhile, the Canadiens are still believed to me in talks with other clubs about other possible trades. With the trade deadline fast approaching, expect a lot of rumblings coming out of the Bell Centre.