This is the second time Phaneuf has been moved in a major deal, as he had previously been acquired by Toronto in 2010 from Calgary in a deal that saw the likes of Matt Stajan, Fredrik Sjostrom, and Jamal Mayers switch teams. For Phaneuf, it is not only a chance for a fresh start after a rather tumultuous time in Toronto, but also a chance for him to help a Senators team that is making a push for the playoffs. Currently with three goals and 21 assists, he is expected to be on a pairing with Cody Ceci, though he will most likely have to change numbers, since his usual number 3 is occupied by Marc Methot. Frattin, Bailey, and Rupert are expected to report to Binghamton of the AHL while Donaghey is still rounding his game out in Moncton of the QMJHL.
As for what Toronto receives, they not only get cap space in anticipation of Steven Stamkos becoming a free agent after the season, they also get the expiring contract of Michalek, who was a former perennial 30-goal scorer that hasn't found his touch in recent seasons, and has not played since January 22. He becomes a free agent after next season, but could be a casualty after this season if the Leafs do decide to go a different direction. Greening and Cowen are also free agents after next season, but Cowen is a RFA, so the remainder of this season and the next could be an audition for him to prove that he can contribute to a team, something he never was able to do in Ottawa either through the coaching staffs or of his own doing. Greening is likely to report to the Toronto Marlies of the AHL, given that he has played almost all season in the AHL. Lindberg will also report to the Marlies of the AHL, and he essentially gives the Leafs a younger player that they can work with, as he is in his first year of pro hockey after a successful run with Oshawa of the OHL last season.
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