Blue Jackets Acquire Williams from Thrashers

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced on Wednesday that they have acquired right wing Jason Williams from the Atlanta Thrashers in exchange for defenseman Clay Wilson and the San Jose Sharks' 6th round pick in the 2009 Entry Draft, which was previously acquired by the Blue Jackets. In 41 games so far this season, Williams has seven goals and 11 assists for 18 points and eight penalty minutes. He was signed to a one-year contract by the Thrashers' this past summer. Wilson, who has played in five games so far this season and has one assist, was assigned to the Thrashers' AHL affiliate in Chicago. This is a good trade for the injury ravaged Blue Jackets. Williams will provide plenty of offensive depth for the team as well as bring plenty of experience to their power play. The Thrashers appear as if they are beginning to go into sell mode as the trade deadline approaches, as they are currently 14th in the Eastern Conference and 14 points out of the playoffs. It looks as if the Thrashers will miss the playoffs again, while the Blue Jackets are looking to make the playoffs for the first time in their existence, as they are currently sitting in the 8th spot in the Western Conference. A lot of their success this season can be given to the outstanding play of rookies Steve Mason, Derick Brassard, and Jakub Voracek. Don't be surprised if the Blue Jackets make more trades leading up to the trade deadline, as they are determined to make the playoffs this year.