Panthers trade D Colby Robak to the Anaheim Ducks for Jesse Blacker

SUNRISE, Fla -- The Florida Panthers have acquired defenseman Jesse Blacker and future draft pick considerations from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defenseman Colby Robak, the team announced Thursday.

"It's an opportunity for [Robak]," Panthers head coach Gerard Gallant said. "It's just a deal and we'll see what happens."

Blacker, 23, has appeared in 15 games for the Norfolk Admirals (AHL) this season registering five assists, five penalty minutes and a minus-12 rating. Drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round (58th overall) in the 2009 NHL Draft, the Toronto, Ontario native has appeared in one career NHL game.

Robak, 24, has appeared in 7 games with the Panthers this season -- twice at forward -- recording no points, two penalty minutes and minus-1 rating. Drafted by Florida in the second round (46th overall) of the 2008 NHL Draft, the Dauphin, Manitoba native has accumulated three assists and 25 penalty minutes in 42 career NHL games.

"I'm happy for him," Panthers defenseman Erik Gudbranson said of his now former teammate. "I think it'll give him a good opportunity. He's a great player and deserves to be in a lineup somewhere."

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