Blues Acquire Kris Russell from Blue Jackets for Nikita Nikitin

The St. Louis Blues announced on Friday that they have acquired defenseman Kris Russell from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for defenseman Nikita Nikitin. In 12 games with the Blue Jackets this season, Russell has two goals and one assist for three points, while Nikitin has no points in seven games with the Blues. Not a bad depth move for the Blues, as Russell will bring some offensive upside to the team. He also plays with some grit and has some puckmoving skill. The change of scenery may help jump-start his NHL career, but playing on a much deeper defensive corps in St. Louis might make it harder for him to do so. As for the Blue Jackets, Nikitin will bring some defensive upside and puckmoving skill to the team's blueline. He should get more opportunities to improve his overall game in Columbus than he did in St. Louis.