Predators Acquire Belak from Panthers

The Nashville Predators announced on Thursday that they have acquired right wing/defenseman Wade Belak from the Florida Panthers in exchange for center Nick Tarnasky. There was recent speculation out of Florida that Belak was on the trading block after he was placed on waivers. So far this season, Belak has played in 15 games, scoring no points and accumulating 25 penalty minutes. Tarnasky, acquired from the Lightning in a September trade, has one assist and 17 penalty minutes in 11 games so far this season. Belak adds plenty of veteran depth and toughness to the Predator lineup and can easily play offense or defense depending on the needs of the team. Tarnasky brings the Panthers a young, gritty, physical forward to their already youthful lineup. It is possible the Panthers made this move in an attempt to shakeup their struggling team, but it remains to be seen if it will have any effect. If the Panthers cannot improve their game, then more trades could be on the way in the coming months.