Johnny Boychuk traded to New York Islanders

Per Joe Haggerty (@HackswithHaggs), Johnny Boychuk has been traded to the New York Islanders for two 2nd round picks and a conditional 3rd round pick.

This is a surprising development that will surely be heavily discussed and debated, but the Bruins were receiving calls from several different teams for one of their defensemen's services. Many thought Adam McQuaid or Matt Bartkowski would be traded, especially after the frugal signings of Torey Smith and Reilly Smith. But it is now the veteran Edmonton native who is packing his bags and heading to New York.

The Islanders get a top four defenseman with a cannon from the point and great experience playing in Boston the past six years. The Bruins do create the breathing room they need to re-sign players or make trades during the season. Boychuk is owed nearly $3.67 million this year per capgeek.com. Let us know your thoughts on this trade.