On Friday, June 22, 2012, Winnipeg native and 21-year-old center Cody Eakin was traded from the Washington Capitals to the Dallas Stars along with the 54th pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft for 32-year-old centerman Mike Ribeiro.
The trade was a necessary one if the Capitals are serious about getting past the second round in the playoffs, but as with every trade, a dedicated group of fans suffered. They may be comforted by the price the Stars paid for Eakin and the fact that barring any negotiation issues, the Stars visit Washington on Nov. 4 next season. And of course, there are the memories.
After being drafted in 85th overall in 2009, Eakin spent a couple years developing in the WHL, first with the Swift Current Broncos, then with the Kootenay Ice while also spending some time with the Hershey Bears. In 2011, he won silver with Canada’s World Junior Championship team. The next season, he broke into the NHL with the Caps, playing 30 games to score eight overall points (4g, 4a).
Midseason, Eakin was sent down to Hershey where he garnered 27 points (13g, 14a) in 43 regular season games and completing their playoff run before coming back up as insurance for the Caps playoff push.
Having given a glimpse into what his future holds during his time in Washington, it’ll be no surprise to see him take off in the Western Conference where hopefully, the Caps won’t regret the move as much.
