The mighty Ducks

They might have changed their name but the Anaheim Ducks have become a mighty good hockey club with the addition of superstar Chris Pronger in a blockbuster trade today. Along with perennial Norris favorite Scott Niedermeyer and emerging talent Francois Beachemin, Pronger gives the Orange County Quackers the most potent blueline corps in the league, surpassing even the Chara-less Senators and the still-vaunted Flames. In fact, there is every likelihood that all three will be featured on the next edition of Team Canada, a feat of notable recognition.

For Pronger, the Oilers pick up some awesome young talent as well as a pair of valuable draft picks. Joffrey Lupul, the Edmonton native who burst onto the NHL scene during the post-season, will help out immediately, but the Oil will have to develop hotshot prospect Ladislav Smid, the 6'3", 204-lbs defenseman picked 9th overall in 2004, as well as their future 1st and 2nd round picks they got from SoCal.

So, don't bet on the Lube Jobs getting back to the Cup finals anytime soon, but you won't be writing these guys off for long.

Unless they come against the Ducks this season, of course.