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.

Blues Sign Nikita Nikitin to One-Year Deal

The St. Louis Blues announced on Thursday that they have signed defenseman Nikita Nikitin to a one-year contract worth $600,000. He would have been a restricted free agent on July 1. In 41 games this past season, his first in the NHL, he had one goal and eight assists for nine points. He also appeared in 22 games with Peoria of the AHL, scoring three goals and 11 assists for 14 points. Not a bad move for the Blues, as Nikitin has lots of defensive upside. He's a good puckmover back on the blueline, so he should be a decent fit on defense next season for the Blues.