Though tied for eighth place in the Western Conference the Vegas Golden Knights appear to be sellers heading into the deadline as sellers, having acquired young defensemen Jakub Zboril from the Chicago Blackhawks for defenseman Anton Stralman.

Stralman, 33, signed a 4 year deal with the Knights this past off season and carries a cap hit of just over 1 million annually. In 44 games with Vegas, Stralman scored 6 goals and added 11 assists.

Zboril, 22, was selected 10th overall by Buffalo in the 2015 draft. He has yet to play in the SHL but is currently in the minors and seems closer to making the jump. At 6′ 2″, 200 lbs Zboril isn’t afraid to play physical and bring smarts and upside in all 3 zones.

When matched up with Victor Soderstrom, Ville Heinola, and Alexander Romanov, Zboril gives the Knights 4 potentially strong young defenders to build their blue line around.

However, they now have to sell the idea that trading away a first pairing defender on a team in a dog fight for the West’s final playoff spot doesn’t impact their chances.

“Focusing on our long term goals does not change our short term goals,” said team President Dana White. “There is no doubt that adding a player like Jakub is the right move for our club.”

“We still plan on making the playoffs this year and in every year of this teams existence. If that means making an add, we will do it. But if the proper trade comes along to secure our long term goals of building a true contender, that has to be done.”

As for the on ice product, the removal of Stralman should mean more ice time and bigger roles for both Jonas Brodin and Jon Merrill.

“Both are ready to step up and deliver in a proper way,” said head coach Conor McGregor. “They’re going to find more opportunities to fook the opposition up and they better.”

With a little under half of the season remaining, Vegas finds themselves tied with the Nashville Predators at 42 points for the West’s final playoff spot. Last season, their first in the SHL, saw the Knights earn their playoff spot on the seasons final day before being swept by the San Jose Sharks.