Trade deadline move by GM Dave Davis just may be the missing piece that Anaheim was looking for.
Anaheim never really had a true 3rd line center. Chris VandeVelde was filling that slot and Chris
is a good defensive forward but not a great at faceoffs, playmaking, and only had a limited scoring
touch. GM Davis knew he had to find someone that could set up the talented wings that were on the
arm and a leg to give up one. As in all leagues you have to give up something to get something
of value back in return. So Gm Davis gave up a young great passing forward that he had high hopes
for in Beau Bennett to get Zach Smith a good third line center with an all around skill set.
Zach plays good defense and can kill penalties, has good puck moving and passing abilities and
a big plus, Zach can deposit the puck in the net. In 8 games with Anaheim, Zach has 5 points
2 Goals, 3 Assists, and is a +7. Zach has brought toughness and physical presence to the third
line along with his offensive skills. There also seems to be come chemistry with his line
mates Patric Hornqvist and Richard Panik. This was something that was missing in the Anaheim
GM Dave Davis feels more confident that this team will fair better in the playoffs than the
last two playoff rosters did. We will just have to wait and see but we are happy that.
Zach is now part of the Anaheim Lineup.