Keyboard Quarterbacks

11:43 a.m.: This is a big one. Dallas is reportedly awaiting word on whether Richards will waive his no-trade clause.

According to TSN, the trade is: Richards and goalie Johan Holmqvist to Dallas for goalie Mike Smith, winger Jussi Jokinen and center Jeff Halpern.

Analysis: Just spoke to Newsday's Steve Zipay about this one, and he likes the move for Tampa. I happen to agree.

Tampa gets major salary cap relief by freeing themselves of Richards' huge contract ($7.8 million per year for the next three years) and Smith who could be the answer to their goaltending problems. Jokinen's only 23 and should develop into a very good second-line scoring winger for the rebuilding Lightning. Halpern has a reputation as a good third-line center who can score and play on the penalty kill.

Since their Stanley Cup win in 2004, the Lightning have had trouble filling out their second and third line with talented support players. They've also had major problems in net. This trade addresses both concerns.

The Stars, meanwhile gave themselves a huge upgrade on the attack. Richards is a top-notch playmaker who makes Dallas' offense (tied for third-most goals in NHL) that much more dangerous. Holmqvist steps into the backup role vacated by Smith, a role tow which he's much better suited to than the starting role he had been thrust into in Tampa.

Mike Modano's only got two years left on his contract and the Stars are moving to secure a core of young forwards to take the reins when their all-time leading scorer is gone. They've already got Mike Ribeiro and Brendan Morrow inked through 2010-11; add Richards' name to that list.