Projo Bruins Blog

February 25, 2007 - March 3, 2007 Archives

Fan favorite Aaron Downey is returning to Providence.

The P-Bruins loaned goalie Phil Sauve to Hamilton (Montreal Canadiens) in exchange for Downey, who played three seasons in Providence (1997-2000), and was a member of the P-Bruins' Calder Cup Championship team in 1999.

"It's something," he said. "It's pretty exciting and a good opportunity. If you're going to play in the minors, Providence is the place to play. Its a great organization and they treated me well the three years I was there. Hopefully I can get my game back on track and get back to the NHL. I just want to help out the young guys and play a physical role."

Downey said he doesn't think he'll be able to make the team's game in Worcester tonight because of travel situations, but he's looking forward to his return.

With Hannu Toivonen back in Providence, the P-Bruins had three goalies with Sauve and Jordan Sigalet.

BOSTON -- Brad Boyes has been dealt to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for defenseman Dennis Wideman.

Boyes had been rumored to be part of a deal, but he said he's still shocked by the transaction.

''At the same time,'' he added, ''I'm excited to go to St. Louis. The Blues have made a lot of moves lately, especially the last couple of days. I'm looking forward to going there and getting another opportunity again."

Bruins assistant captain Patrice Bergeron was stunned and a bit disappointed by the trade.

"He is one of my best friends on the team," said Bergeron. "It's tough to see him go. Obviously I wish him all the best and I hope it's a good thing for him, and for us, too. I really wish him all the best."

Earlier in the day, the Bruins moved defenseman Paul Mara to the New York Rangers in exchange for veteran Aaron Ward.

-- JOE McDONALD

With the NHL trade deadline looming at 3 p.m., the Boston Bruins today shipped offensive defenseman Paul Mara to the New York Rangers in exchange for defensive-minded defenseman Aaron Ward.

Ward, 34, is 6'2'' 225 pounds and played a key role on last season's Stanley Cup champions, the Carolina Hurricanes. He reportedly has feuded recently with Rangers' star Jaromir Jagr.

Mara, 27, is 6'4'' 219 pounds. He was acquired by the Bruins from Phoenix for Nick Boynton in June.

Mara is paid $3 million a year. Ward signed a two-year, $5.5 million deal with the Rangers last summer.

As expected goaltender Hannu Toivonen and defenseman Mark Stuart have been assigned to Providence. Stuart just arrived at the Dunkin' Donuts Center, but I have not seen Hannu, yet.

I'll have more from both guys after the game and in tomorrow's Journal.