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The Phoenix Coyotes have traded defensemen David Rundblad and Mathieu Brisebois to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a 2nd round pick in the upcoming draft.
The #coyotes have dealt defenceman David Rundblad to the #blackhawks.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) March 4, 2014
Can confirm Rundblad to Blackhawks for second-round pick this year.
— Sarah McLellan (@azc_mclellan) March 4, 2014
Rundblad bounced back and forth between the AHL and NHL since being acquired from the Ottawa Senators in December 2011 as part of a deal that sent Kyle Turris to Canada's capital.
The 23-year-old Swede played 26 total NHL games with the Coyotes over parts of three seasons. This season, Rundblad recorded one assist, 11 blocks and 17 shots in 12 games.
With the Coyotes unable to send the young defenseman down to the AHL without exposing him to waivers, Rundblad remained on the NHL roster as a frequent healthy scratch.
The offensively-gifted defenseman will try his luck with his fourth franchise (STL, OTT, PHX, CHI). Rundblad is a high-skill player with solid 5-on-5 possession numbers that can quarterback a power play, who's been knocked for inconsistent play in his own end.
Rundblad has one more year on his existing contract before becoming a restricted free agent.
Brisebois, 21, scored six points in 28 games with the Portland Pirates this season.
Check back with Five For Howling throughout the day for more info as it becomes available.
Related story: Rundblad's journey to Phoenix