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.”