Dawn of the Deal

The night before the trade deadline: we're all waiting for the domino to fall.  Some interesting things have taken place over the last 48 hrs., here's an update as well as my take on a few relevant transactions.

- The Wild have re-signed G Niklas Backstrom to a 4-year, $24 million deal.  This was absolutely necessary for Minnesota, not only to ensure that they make the playoffs, but because they have next to nothing going for them in terms of star power.  Marian Gaborik is as good as gone, and without him, Backstrom is by far their MVP.

- The Toronto Maple Leafs haven't re-signed Dominic Moore.  The Ottawa Senators haven't re-signed Chris Neil.  I'm surprised in neither case, given that both players are asking to get paid more than twice what they are worth.  Both will undoubtedly be traded.

- The already stacked New Jersey Devils acquired Niclas Havelid in a trade with Atlanta yesterday.  This was one of those under-the-radar moves that will pay huge dividends.  In terms of D available, beyond the Prongers of the world, this guy is the cream of the crop.  Just ask Pierre.

- On a related note, if the playoffs started today I'd have to predict a Red Wings/Devils final...