It looks like Anaheim Ducks GM Bob Murray wasn't quite sure if the team he was about to send into battle for the 2013-14 season was quite right. Instead of waiting to find out he pulled the trigger on an 11th hour deal that instantly improves his club.

The Washington Capitals sent Mathieu Perreault to the Ducks in exchange for Anaheim’s fourth-round pick in 2014 and AHL forward John Mitchell.

The 25-year-old played for Ducks head coach Bruce Beudreau before his dismissal from Washington and subsequent hiring in Anaheim two seasons ago.

The addition of Perreault is an upgrade to the Ducks so-so center position that includes Ryan Getzlaf, Saku Koivu and Nick Bonino among others.

Perreault was among the Caps best puck possession players and should help greatly improve the Ducks in this area. He also posses a good passers touch and create some much needed offense for the Ducks. Perreault had 17 points (6g 11a) in 39 games for Washington last season. He had 16 goals in only 64 games the year before, so the kid has shown that can put up some points.

This is an excellent pick up for the Ducks. Right now they need all the help they can get. Especially since the Pacific Division looks like it is loaded with teams that are going to beat the crap out of each other all season long.

***

Follow me on Twitter! @StevePalumboHTW

On Facebook at StevePalumboNHL

Email me at [email protected]

Join the Discussion: » 17 Comments » Post New Comment

» Sharks offense in heating up; have they turned a corner?

» Radim Simek's return will help, but San Jose's issues run deep

» The Last Place Sharks; Should We Get Used To It?

» Evander Kane helping Sharks get back on track

» Patrick Marleau's big return masks Sharks woes