The Dallas Stars acquired defenseman Kris Russell in a trade with the Calgary Flames on Monday.
According to NHL.com the Flames will get defenseman Jyrki Jokipakka, forward prospect Brett Pollock, and a conditional second-round pick in this year’s NHL draft. Russell will be an unrestricted free agent after this season and has a cap hit of $2.6 million. The Flames tried to give Russell a new contract, but needed to get contracts done with forwards Sean Monahan and Johnny Gaudreau.
"I wanted to stay a Calgary Flame, but when you hear you're going to a team that has a good chance to win a Cup and has a lot of talent on that team, it's pretty exciting," Russell said. "I'm looking forward to it. It's tough to leave, but it's the next chapter and I'm excited to be a Star."
Russell was drafted by the Flames in 2005. He hasn’t played since February 12 because of a groin injury. He has four goals, 11 assists, and 15 points this season, according to ESPN. Russell has 38 goals, 135 assists, and 173 points in his career. Jokipakka has two goals and four assists this season. Pollock has 67 points with Edmonton in the Western Hockey League this season.
The Stars are 38-19-6 while the Flames are 26-31-4.