2 replies to this topic

[WestcoastCanuck]

A feature on Sportsnet reminded me of this trade. Niewendyk was a key member of the Stars teams of the late 90s (winning the Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe trophy in 1999). Iginla is a two time Rocket Richard trophy winner and the cornerstone of the Flames franchise. Who do you think got the better deal?

[Meatwad]

A feature on Sportsnet reminded me of this trade. Niewendyk was a key member of the Stars teams of the late 90s (winning the Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe trophy in 1999). Iginla is a two time Rocket Richard trophy winner and the cornerstone of the Flames franchise. Who do you think got the better deal?

I'll say Dallas easy. I mean having a great talent like Iginla on the team is nice but a cup is nicer. Nieuwendyk is a winner. 3 cups with 3 different teams and was the Conn Smythe winner during the Stars cup run and helped lead them back the next season. He got the gold in 2002 along with Iginla. Great faceoff man and two way player. When he was traded I was relieved because that was the same season the Sharks got their first division title. Season after that the Devils win the cup with him.

Iginla might lead a team to the cup eventually but I don't think Dallas would pass up the trade even in hindsight. Except for 01-02 which was the last year of his contract Iginla hasn't topped 75 points and I think 04 was a contract year too where he topped 40 goals for the second time and lead the Flames on their playoff run. I don't like that pattern in players. He's missing Craig Conroy too this season.

[digitalmonkey]

This was a trade where they were both winners. Dallas acquired Nieuwendyk with the hopes that he would help them win the cup and he came through. Calgary acquired Iginla hoping he would turn out to be an excellent player. He did. Win win all the way!