Chicago Blackhawks Press Release
January 31, 2006
Chicago Blackhawks General Manager Mathias Vaigur announced today that the Blackhawks have traded center Tyler Arnason and defender Jeff Schultz to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for center Alexei Yashin. Chicago also recived winger Brian McGrattan and defender Matt Nickerson.
"In Alexei Yashin we get a top center who has a history of solid seasons behind him." - Said Vaigur. "It was a tough choice giving up a talented players like Tyler Arnason and Jeff Schults. But we feel that the return we got, will benefit our team not only this season but also down the line. Brian McGrattan is a player that plays with his heart on the sleave and he never backs down. Matt Nickerson is a good defensive prospect who can play at both ends of the ice."
Alexei Yashin, 32, has 42 points so far this season witch puts him at top of the Hawks scoring race right away. Yashin has already been traded this season as the Buffalo Sabres acquired him from Detroit Red Wings earlier in the season.
"We have had front row seats to his play this season when he was a Red Wing. And its clear that he will be a valuable asset to this team. I am looking forward to see him on the ice tonight against Nashville." - Said head coach Ted Nolan.