The Arizona Coyotes have kicked things off this trade deadline season by dealing defenseman Michael Stone to the Calgary Flames. In exchange for Stone, the Coyotes will receive a third round pick, as well as a conditional fifth round pick for 2018 if the Flames re-sign Stone.
With Stone, the Flames will receive a pretty underrated defenseman. He was a third round draft pick in 2008 by the Coyotes but really had a breakout season in 2015-16. During that time he played 75 games and 6 goals and 30 assists for 36 points on the year. He hasn’t been nearly as productive this season, tallying only 9 points in 45 games, but was rumored to be on the trading block and will probably benefit from a change of scenery.
Stone will also probably welcome a return to Calgary where he played four seasons with the Hitmen of the WHL. He saw plenty of success during his time with the Hitmen as well, leading his team in points during the 2009-10 season.
As part of the trade, the Coyotes will actually retain some of Stone’s salary. In fact, the Flames will only be responsible for half of his salary this season.
The Calgary Flames are currently battling for a Wild Card playoff spot in the Western Conference and the acquisition of Stone should help their stretch run. Meanwhile, the Coyotes are only starting their trade deadline dealing. Rumors of Martin Hanzal being dealt have been running wild for some time now, and he may not be the only one the Coyotes part ways with.