Robert Lang Joins The Red Wings

Yesterday, Ken Holland told reporters his team needed at least one more forward. Today, the Red Wings' GM made his move. Center Robert Lang, one of the NHL's top scorers, has been traded to Detroit. In return, the Washington Capitals receive junior forward Tomas Fleischmann, a first-round draft pick in 2004 and a fourth-round pick in 2006.

Lang, 33, has been about the only good news in Washington this season. His 29 goals and 45 assists have him tied for the NHL scoring lead with Martin St. Louis of the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The Red Wings get the scorer they wanted without subtracting anyone from the roster, and another offensive weapon undoubtedly makes them better. With Steve Yzerman often playing on the wing this season, center is where they need help.

But the deal is not without risk for Detroit. Lang has never produced much in the playoffs, and he comes with a contract: three more seasons at $5-million per year. His previous best season was 80 points with Pittsburgh in 2000-01. Is he in the midst of a breakthrough year, or a never-to-be-repeated career year?

The Capitals get a player with a decent chance of turning into a solid NHL goal scorer. Fleischmann, a 19-year-old Czech playing for the Moose Jaw Warriors, is considered among the most creative forwards in the Western Hockey League. He has 28 goals and 41 assists this season, placing him 13th in WHL scoring.

Washington also did well to coax a couple of draft choices out of Detroit, though the Red Wings' first-round pick this spring will be no better than 25th-to-30th overall.

While everyone expects the Red Wings to load up for another Stanley Cup run, there is also no surprise in seeing the Capitals unload their best player. Lang joins Jaromir Jagr and Peter Bondra as Washington stars sent packing in recent weeks. The Capitals, among hockey's most disappointing franchises, are dumping expensive veterans and asking for prospects and draft picks in return.

For more on the latest trades, see The 2004 NHL Trade Ledger, analyzing all the deals leading up to the March 9 deadline.