According to the Calgary Herald, Flames GM, Darryl Sutter, had the following to say about the deal: "Jay is one of the most complete defenseman in the game, and we are very pleased to have reached an agreement that will make him an important component of the Calgary Flames success.  We identified Jay as the priority player where we were going to focus our money. We wanted an opportunity a few days in advance of the deadline, and that’s why we made the move we did this past weekend."

Bouwmeester, who has only played with the Florida Panthers in his six-year NHL career, had 15 goals and 27 assists in 82 games this season.  The Panthers acquired the rights to Jordan Leopold and a third round draft pick (they shoe Josh Birkholz). 

"I am happy to have this deal done as Calgary was a team I was very interested in playing for. I was encouraged by the commitment Calgary showed by acquiring me prior to July 1," said Bouwmeester. "I am familiar with some of the players and believe we have a strong club that is poised to make the next step in becoming a championship club. I look forward to contributing to that success."

I’m sure this will be a huge change for him.  I don’t think the market in Florida is particularly strong for the hockey team but Calgary is known for their loyal and spirited fans.  While I’m sure he will appreciate the energy and support a strong fanbase can bring, it can also be hard to deal with if you’ve never really encountered it before.  Either way, I’m extremely excited about this deal and I can’t wait to see what he adds to the team.

image: TSN

Post from: Hockey Beat