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Columbus Blue Jackets' Samuel Pahlsson (26), of Sweden, checks St. Louis Blues' David Perron, left, into the boards during the first period of an NHL hockey game Monday, April 5, 2010, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)Jeff Roberson/The Associated Press

The Vancouver Canucks added some defensive depth to their forward lines by landing centre Sammy Pahlsson from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Pahlsson, 34, was a key member of the Anaheim Ducks, who won the 2007 Stanley Cup with a tough, bruising group of forwards. Pahlsson and then-linemates Rob Niedermayer and Travis Moen were a relentless third line that wore down the opposition's big line as the Ducks marched through the playoffs.

With the Blue Jackets in the midst of a house-cleaning, it was no surprise to Pahlsson that he was traded. When he came off the ice after Monday's practice, about two hours before the deal was made, Pahlsson told reporters he wasn't about to go home and relax.

"I know the situation and my contract situation," he said. "We'll see what happens. It's not fun for anyone."

At the same time, he admitted, a trade that put him on a playoff contender would not be all bad.

"Being in the playoffs is the best part of hockey," Pahlsson said. "For three years, [the Blue Jackets]were not even close to it. That's hard on everyone."

The Blue Jackets obtained two fourth-round picks in the NHL entry draft. The Canucks may also send along a minor-league player but that was not immediately confirmed.

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