The Boston Bruins added some defensive depth today by acquiring defensemen Dennis Seidenberg and Matthew Bartkowski from the Florida Panthers in exchange for right wings Craig Weller and Byron Bitz and a second round pick in the 2010 Entry Draft. In 61 games this season with the Panthers, Seidenberg has two goals and 20 assists for 22 points. Bartkowski has yet to sign an NHL contract and is currently playing with the University of Ohio. The Bruins originally acquired Weller earlier in the season from the Minnesota Wild in exchange for Chuck Kobasew. He has not played in any NHL games this season. In 45 games this season with the Bruins, Bitz has four goals and five assists for nine points and 31 penalty minutes.
Not a bad move for the Bruins, who appear to be stocking up on future defensemen right now. Seidenberg will bring plenty of offense to the Bruins' blueline, especially on the power play, as a likely playoff rental. Bartkowski has the potential to be a hard-hitting, physical, and offensive-minded defenseman, so he could be a good addition to the Bruins down the road. As for the Panthers, they have acquired a couple of physical checking-line forwards. Weller could bring the team plenty of grit on the wing if they don't keep him in the minors. Bitz brings plenty of third or fourth line offensive depth to the Panthers, as well as some size and toughness.
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