The Vancouver Canucks took a big step in improving their depth at forward and defence on Monday, acquiring center Bryan Smolinski from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a conditional second round pick in 2007, and re-acquiring defenseman Brent Sopel from the LA Kings for second and fourth round picks.

Smolinski was one of Chicago's best forwards this season, but he was unlikely to re-sign with the struggling Blackhawks this season, which made him expendable by the deadline.

He's a versatile forward who can play center and the wing, and his playoff experience with the Ottawa Senators should make him a valuable addition to the Canucks, who've been in the market for depth at center since losing Ryan Kesler to injury several weeks ago.

It's believed Nonis may also be in the market for blueline depth, but by taking on the remainder of Smolinski's salary he may not have enough cap space available to pull that off.

As for the Blackhawks, this signals the start of what's become seemingly an annual fire sale of veteran players as their rebuilding process lurches painfully along.

It's believed the 'Hawks could also shop one of their backup goalies (Brian Boucher or Patrick Lalime), and may be trying to peddle defenseman Jassen Cullimore and forward Martin Lapointe, although the latter hopes he'll remain with the 'Hawks for the final year of his contract.

Sopel's best seasons were during his previous tenure with the Canucks from 2000 to 2004, including a career best 42-point season in 2003-04. He's since played for the New York Islanders and the Kings but failed to achieve the same numbers.

He thrived under the team's former all-out offensive attack, so it'll be interesting to see how Sopel fits in under the Canucks new defensive system. His puckmoving ability should help bolster their offensive attack.

If nothing else, he'll likely be happy to be back with a playoff contender, in the city where he had his best seasons.

Best of all for Canucks GM Dave Nonis, he didn't have to sacrifice anyone off his roster to land these two.