The Phoenix Coyotes traded Petteri Nokelainen and Garrett Stafford to the Montreal Canadiens today in exchange for a 7th round draft pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft and Brock Trotter.  The trade frees up space on the Coyotes 4th line and more importantly frees up a roster spot for young forward Andy Miele.  The Coyotes brass have made it clear since they signed last year's Hobey Baker winner that he want him to make an impact in the NHL.  The path for him is now wide open given the roster change and the fact the team desperately needs scoring depth.

As for the player the Coyotes received in the trade, below is a comment on Mr. Trotter from Hockey Future's post on the young forward.

Trotter is a beast from the blueline in, with a solid burst and nose for the net. He also is capable of playing a physical, gritty game that belies his size.

In the end, the move is a minor one in terms of what pieces were involved.  However, if Miele produces this season this move will be a net gain for the Yotes, regardless of how Trotter and the future 7th round pick pan out.

Links:

Reaction to the trade at Habs Eyes on the Prize

Bruce Peter post on Brock Trotter from August

Coyotes press release on the deal.