Thomas Vanek Traded to the Panthers for Dylan McIlrath, 3rd round pick

It was sad and it was sweet and we didn’t even get to know him complete.

Today, Thomas Vanek got flipped to the Florida Panthers in exchange for their 2017 3rd round pick and Dylan McIlrath.

Oh, and the Wings retained 50% of Vanek’s salary. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

The return wasn’t monumental, especially considering the 1st round pick ideas that had been floated earlier in the week. But considering Vanek was a rental player for the opposition and on an expiring deal, any return is better than no return.

Vanek managed 15 goals (leading the team) and 23 assists in 48 games for the Red Wings. Best of luck, Thomas!

Dylan McIlrath is currently in the AHL. At age 24 and with just 4 points in 18 AHL games, it’s unlikely he ever becomes an NHL regular, but it’s nice to have a body coming back the other way. 

Update: