OTHL -- Markus Näslund was traded from Vancouver last season, but today he is back in Canada as the Calgary Flames acquired the Swedish top scorer from Phoenix in a multiplayer deal. The Flames had to send Brad Stuart, Mike Johnson, Jonathan Cheechoo and prospect Jean-Philipe Levasseur in exchange for Näslund. However, the Flames also recived Tomas Kaberle, Aleksey Morozov and Eric Cairns in the deal.
Markus Näslund who had a solid season with the Coyotes last season when he scored 32 goals and had 71 points, is on a pace to score 41 goals this season.
Both Calgary and Phoenix have struggled out of the gate. Calgary are 14th in the West with just Anaheim behind them. Calgary has a 2-5-0 record so far, and they hope that the new faces will spark the team that was mentioned as a cup contender before the season started. The Coyotes are in a simular position with a 2-3-1 record.
"I am eager to return to Canada, the fans up in Canada know the game, and its something extra to play in Canada. I am also looking forward to play the Oilers, and be part of the "Battle of Alberta"." - Markus Näslund said shortly after the trade was announced.