The Blue Jackets shipped out another potential UFA veteran, trading forward Sergei Fedorov to the Washington Capitals in exchange for prospect Ted Ruth.
Federov’s stock – particularly his offensive production - has been in significant decline since he signed with Anaheim as a UFA back in 2003, something a trade to Columbus in 2005 was unable to fix.
Still, Fedorov proved himself valuable in a defensive role over the last two years with the Blue Jackets, able to play every forward position as well as defense when called upon.
His versatility could make him useful in a defensive role for the Capitals and some might expect him to center fellow Russian Alexander Ovechkin's line, but it’s expected he’ll be plugged into Washington’s second line.
Fedorov might also be able to fill a leadership role for the relatively young Capitals as they battle down the stretch for a playoff berth.
I don't know that I would say that return is based on the player, rather Columbus' ability to negotiate. The most lopsided deal of the day has to be Foote for a first rounder. What was Colorado thinking on that one???
I definitely agree that 1st round pick for Foote is a steal. However, how does the same GM get taken on the Federov trade.
Ted Ruth, draft 46th overall in the 2007 entry draft. 6' 1", 199 lbs. Currently playing at Notre Dame. Not much info about the kid. Seems pretty average. Not much of a return for Federov.
Here are some details on Teddy Ruth; care of HockeysFuture.com (http://www.hockeysfuture.com/prosp ects/teddy_ruth):
Teddy Ruth
Prospect Grade: 6.5 C
Profile Contributed By: Sean Ruck
History
2004-05: Playing for the Chicago Mission of the Midwest Elite Hockey League, Ruth recorded 16 points (eight goals, eight assists) in 46 games.
2005-06: Playing for the U-17 team, the defensively sound Ruth recorded 11 points (three goals, eight assists) and 82 PIM in 66 games. Ruth also scored a goal in seven games played for the silver medal winning World U-17 Hockey Challenge USA squad.
2006-07: Ruth, who was already one of the NTDP’s top defensive players sought to improve his offensive game, putting in a lot of hard work and effort during the off-season. His hard work paid off as he improved his offensive totals, notching 16 points (five goals, 11 assists) in 39 games. He scored three of his five goals on the power play, and one of his goals was a game winner. He also led all NTDP defenseman in PIM with 64. Ruth played 17 games against NCAA opposition where he recorded five points (two goals, three assists) and 37 PIM. He led all NTDP players in PIM against NCAA opposition. NHL Central Scouting currently ranks Ruth 32nd overall, two spots higher than his defensive teammate Kevin Shattenkirk.
Talent Analysis
Ruth, who stands at 6’1 is a tremendous competitor. He is a stay at home defenseman who has worked to improve his offensive skills.
Future
Ruth will attend the University of Notre Dame in 2007-08.
The Jackets got what they wanted out of this deal and that was to dump his salary for anything they could get. Doug set the franchise back when he signed Federov, and sealed his own fate.
I'm Lyle Richardson, also known as Spector, Foxsports.com 's "Prince of Pucks".,which is based on the fact I live in Prince Edward Island, Canada and I couldn't think of a better byline. I've been an NHL hockey commentator since 1998 on my website, Spector's Hockey, and I'm a contributing writer for Foxsports.com , The Hockey News and Eishockey News. I'm also a regular on The Faceoff Hockey Show and a frequent guest on "The Late Crew" on The Team 1200 Ottawa.
