The first trade of the 2008 NHL trade deadline saw the St. Louis Blues dealt defenseman Bryce Salvador to the New Jersey Devils for tough guy winger Cam Janssen.

Salvador is eligible for unrestricted free agency this summer, and with the Blues re-signing Barret Jackman last night, and the depth of the Blues defense corps, he became expendable.

The Devils were seeking experienced depth for their blueline corps and Salvador should address that need. He’s a good defensive blueliner, responsible in his own zone and at 6-2, 222 he has good size as well, plus has several years of playoff experiences with the Blues in the pre-lockout era.

Janssen made a name for himself as a physical winger unafraid to drop the gloves, but also garnered a reputation for blindside hits, the most notable occurred last season against Toronto’s Tomas Kaberle.

He’s missed all of this season thus far due to a shoulder injury and is only just now returning to action. If healthy he should provide the Blues with a shot of aggressive grit, although he must learn not to take bad penalties.