Instant Analysis: Derek Morris Goes Back To Phoenix
The Boston Bruins once again shuffle the deck on defense, sending Derek Morris back to the Coyotes.
The Trade
To Phoenix: D Derek Morris
To Boston: 4th Round Pick
From Phoenix’s Standpoint
Phoenix picks up a defenseman familiar to the organization who in fact only waived his no-trade clause because the destination was Phoenix. Morris played the better part of five seasons in Phoenix, amassing 93 points. The 6 foot, 220-pound Morris is having a good statistical season with 25 points in 57 games. For the Coyotes, defense is a position of strength, so Morris should be considered a depth pickup at least for now. Phoenix relies heavily on Yandle, Jovanovski and Michalek on D and they also have Aucoin and Vandermeer in the fold. Morris may see second-pairing minutes. The Coyotes are headed towards the playoffs and find themselves in the unfamiliar “buyer” category. They add experience to an already-experienced group of defensemen.
From Boston’s Standpoint
Morris was overpaid and not living up to expectations in Boston (just like the rest of the roster), so the Bruins free up cap space with this deal and ship out a player who wasn’t a great fit. Shortly after this trade was announced, the B’s picked up defenseman Dennis Seidenberg. Just as they moved Aaron Ward in the summer to bring in Morris, they’ve now moved Morris to make room for Seidenberg. And the revolving door continues for second-pairing defensemen in Boston. The Bruins don’t get full value back for their asset, as Morris’ skill would garner a 2nd round pick in return if he was making more reasonable money.
Final Thoughts
Major win for the Coyotes, who get a quality defenseman that loves playing in Phoenix. While Phoenix wins this deal, the Bruins make this move in conjunction with the Seidenberg trade and finish the day with a stronger blueline.
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