Lightning Acquire Oberg, Kostka from Panthers for Wright, Vernace

The Tampa Bay Lightning have announced that they have acquired defensemen Evan Oberg and Michael Kostka from the Florida Panthers in exchange for center James Wright and defenseman Michael Vernace. In 12 games with San Antonio of the AHL, Oberg has two assists, while Kostka has two goals and four assists for six points in 18 games with San Antonio. In 22 games with Norfolk of the AHL, Wright has one goal and four assists for five points, while Vernace has two goals and 10 assists for 12 points in 22 games with Norfolk. This is really just a depth move for both teams, as all four players will likely spend the majority of the season in the minors.

Canucks Acquire Chris Higgins from Panthers for Evan Oberg, Draft Pick

The Vancouver Canucks added some offensive depth on Trade Deadline Day by acquiring left wing Chris Higgins from the Florida Panthers in exchange for defenseman Evan Oberg and a third round pick in the 2013 Entry Draft. Higgins, who is currently sidelined with a broken thumb, will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, while Oberg has one more year left on his current deal. In 48 games this season with the Panthers, Higgins has 11 goals and 12 assists for 23 points. Oberg appeared in two games this season with the Canucks, scoring no points. He has also played in 37 games with Manitoba of the AHL, scoring seven goals and four assists for 11 points. Not a bad move for the Canucks, as Higgins will bring plenty of offensive depth to their third and fourth lines. He will also bring some two-way ability to the team, as well as some skill to the penalty kill. In Oberg, the Panthers get a puckmoving defenseman with some offensive instincts to help them in their rebuilding process.