Blues Trade: Warsofsky to Boston

Per report from Andy Strickland, the Blues have sent former 4th round pick David Warsofsky to Boston in exchange for Center Vladimir Sobotka. He is a restricted free agent with no arbitration rights.

David Warsofsky - image via blues.nhl.com

Warsofsky just finished his Sophomore season at Boston University. Collecting 23 points in 34 games. He was also a key part of the US win over Canada at the IIHF U-20 World Championships this past holiday season. Where he struggles defensively due to his size, he is a very intelligent player who uses angles and speed to defend. He is also very quick with the puck and not afraid to jump in the play.

For Warsofsky this will be a home coming of sorts. David is from North Marshfield, MA.

You can read more about Warsofsky here, on the Bluenote Zone.

Vladimir Sobotka - image via hockeysfuture.com

Vlad Sobotka is one of a collection of Bruins prospects that were all highly regarded a few years ago. In 2008 Hockey’s Future ranked Boston #5 (when the Blues were #1) and Sobotka was a highly rated prospect in their system. He has found scoring success in the AHL, 74 points in 68 games, but hasn’t been able to stick it out with Boston. Last season he was given an extended look through out the season. Seeing 61 NHL games. He also received some top line time while Marc Savard was injured.

Sobotka is not a big player and he doesn’t possess elite skill. He does possess some hockey smarts and a tenacious attitude. Since he is restricted and has no arbitration rights the Blues could sign him to a low dollar figure deal and use him as an injury replacement from Peoria. If Sobotka makes the roster he would be a good counterpart to Jay McClement. Giving the Blues two tough energy line centers to play against. Expect Sobotka to come in to camp much like newly acquired TJ Hensick. AHL producers who will be fighting to earn their time on the NHL roster.

Darren Pang called this an underrated trade, I’m inclined to believe he is correct.