We’re now into our countdown of former Detroit Red Wings GM Ken Holland‘s best trades during his time in the Motor City. For those of you who missed number five on the list, check out the details of the first two moves on the list:
No. 5: Acquiring 2nd round pick from Carolina (Jiri Hudler) for Aaron Ward
No. 4: Acquiring Robert Lang from Capitals in exchange for Tomas Fleishmann and draft picks
Our countdown continues by going back to the most recent Stanley Cup winning season that the Red Wings enjoyed, and a key Trade Deadline acquisition that proved to be an effective move that bolstered the team blue line.
Acquiring Brad Stuart from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for second and fourth round picks in 2008 and 2009
The hard-nosed defenseman had played the bulk of the first portion of his NHL career with the San Jose Sharks before bouncing around the League between 2005 and 2007. After signing a free-agent deal with Los Angeles in 2007, he played in 63 games for the team before being acquired by the Red Wings at the 2008 Trade Deadline.
He immediately formed a formidable tandem with defenseman Niklas Kronwall, eventually helping the Red Wings to the 2008 Stanley Cup. After becoming a free-agent, he decided to return to Detroit on a four-year deal.
During his time in Detroit, he had plenty of highlights of doling out bruising hits against the opposition, along with some offensive production.
He would eventually return to the San Jose Sharks in 2012 due to family issues.
