Canadiens Acquire Michael Blunden from Blue Jackets for Ryan Russell

The Montreal Canadiens have announced that they have acquired right wing Michael Blunden from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for left wing Ryan Russell. The Blue Jackets re-signed Blunden on June 29 to a one-year, two-way contract. Russell has yet to receive a new contract for the 2011-12 season and is still a restricted free agent. In one game last season with Columbus, Blunden had no points. He also appeared in 37 games with Springfield of the AHL, scoring 12 goals and nine assists for 21 points. Russell appeared in 65 games last season with Hamilton of the AHL, scoring 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points. He has yet to appear in an NHL game. This is really just a depth move for both teams, as Blunden and Russell will likely spend the majority of next season in the AHL.