Avalanche Acquire Ryan O'Byrne from Canadiens

The Colorado Avalanche announced today that they have acquired defenseman Ryan O'Byrne from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for prospect left wing Michael Bournival. In three games so far this season, O'Byrne has no points. Bournival has appeared in 17 games so far this season with Shawinigan of the QMJHL, scoring 10 goals and 14 assists for a team leading 24 points. He was Colorado's third round pick in the 2010 Entry Draft. This is really just a depth move for both teams. O'Byrne will bring some toughness and experience to the Avalanche blueline, which is currently depleted due to injuries. Once the injured players return to the lineup, O'Byrne will likely become the sixth or seventh defenseman. The Canadiens get a good offensive winger in Bournival, yet he will still have to get a bit stronger to make the jump to the AHL and NHL levels. The move also cuts $1 million from the Canadiens' salary, and it's rumored they could be in the market for a winger. Only time will tell if the Canadiens are making room for another acquisition.