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Purcell surprised, happy to be in Tampa Bay

It’s always interesting the day after the trade deadline to hear players’ reactions to being traded, both in how they feel about moving and about how they found out. Sometimes a player is told ahead of time that he’s most likely going to get traded, but in the case of former-LA Kings forward Teddy Purcell, he was caught completely off guard.

“When we saw the report the Kings had picked up Halpern, we assumed it was for a draft pick, then they came back a few minutes later saying they had more info on the trade and that I was traded,’' Purcell said after the Lightning’s morning skate Thursday in Washington. “It was a little strange. It’s the first time I’ve ever been traded, and it was a little awkward at first being there with all the guys. But then we started joking about it and had a good laugh.’'

It’s not completely surprising that the Kings would trade with Tampa Bay for a veteran forward as they prepare for the playoffs, but it is surprising that they gave up Purcell in the process. Purcell has had a bit of a slow start with the Kings (8-17-25 in 91 games) but he’s been a menace in the AHL and he’s a 24 year old with nothing but potential.

And now it seems that Purcell may have a chance to play on a line with Vincent Lecavalier and Ryan Malone, a nice turnaround for the young forward. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay traded away a veteran but one that’s had injury issues the past two seasons.

I can imagine the Lightning’s side of the conversation getting the deal done:

“Hmm...Halpern? Well, we’d like a 2nd rounder at least”

“Well, we’d go with a lower pick but we need another player as well.”

“Purcell? Why uhh.....I guess that’s okay. AND a third rounder? Tough bargain, but deal.”

Hangs up phone...

“Suckers.”