The Dallas Stars and Montreal Canadiens conspired to create a minor ripple in the fabric of the National Hockey League this week by exchanging a weathered defenseman(Sergei Gonchar) for a career depth forward (Travis Moen). While both squads stand to benefit from the trade, examining the fantasy angle doesn’t inspire much enthusiasm until the deal is scrutinized as catalyst for a foreseeable follow-up move (or two).

Specifically, what does Stars general manager Jim Nill plan to do next?

By shipping away Gonchar, and 92 percent of his $5 million salary, the Stars clear valuable breathing room under the cap, which is space that would come in handy in adding an experienced defenseman, preferably one with offensive upside and a right-handed shot. And this is where the fantasy discussion becomes more stimulating.

A team that aims to make serious noise in the postseason this spring, the Stars are already off pace in the playoff race with a 5-6-4 record. While their gaggle of young, talented defensemen -- Jamie Oleksiak, Brenden Dillon, John Klingberg and Patrik Nemeth (who is on injured reserve) -- hints at a promising future, the Stars need an experienced body to help them compete now; veterans Alex Goligoski and Trevor Daley can only handle so much of the load. Furthermore, of the aforementioned six, plus current defensive plug Jordie Benn, only Klingberg is a right-handed shot. The 22-year-old has played a total of one game in the NHL. For the record, he managed well enough.

So, in light of this proposed need, who fits the bill?