February 8, 2008
Ducks favorites to land Blake? TheFourthPeriod.com
The Anaheim Ducks appear to be the frontrunners to acquire Los Angeles Kings defenseman Rob Blake, reports the Windsor Star.
The Detroit Red Wings are also believed to be heavily interested in Blake, however citing "highly-placed league sources," the Star claims the Ducks will obtain him before the Feb. 26 trade deadline.
While Blake is currently suffering from a non-displaced fracture of the left ankle, the Wings may not be willing to pay the right for him.
According to the paper, the Kings are looking for an NHL-level player, a top prospect and a high draft pick.
Blake, 38, is making $6 million this season and can become an unrestricted free agent July 1.
If the Wings cannot get their hands on Blake, the Star suggests they'll pursue a depth defenseman. The Ducks, on the other hand, appear willing to pay the price in order to defend their title as champions.
Imagine Blake, Chris Pronger, Scott Niedermayer and Mathieu Schneider on the blueline... together... on the same team. Wow, that's impressive. This story came out of left field, it appears, as the Ducks are already in the market for a top-six forward. The team is believed to be very interested in Toronto's Mats Sundin, and imagine how dangerous they'll be with him and Blake on an already powerful unit!
