Downie is a bit younger and becomes an unrestricted free agent next year. This allows the Flyers to dump a little cap space since Talbot still had 2 years left on his deal. Downie costs a bit more per season at $2.65 million, but if this year is a success he will prove he is worth it and if not he can simply be let go.
Talbot was a likable guy who will be missed, but he was playing on the 4th line as of late. This trade will allow Talbot to play higher up than that in Colorado and gives us a player who was playing on the first line on his previous team. I wouldn't be shocked if our first line tomorrow is Downie-Giroux-Lecavalier.
This move reaks of Holmgren desperately trying to save his job, but it definitely isn't as bone-headed as most of his deals.
By: Ben Lebo
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