JUST IN: Colorado Avalanche GM Joe Sakic completes trade with Ducks!

With the National Hockey League Trade Deadline set for one week from today, the hockey world continues to sit on pins and needles waiting for the fireworks. 

However, Colorado Avalanche general manager Joe Sakic has gotten a head start on the festivities. He's acquired defenseman Josh Manson from the Anaheim Ducks, and will be sending a 2023 draft selection as well as defense prospect Drew Helleson to Southern California in return, as first reported by Kevin Weekes. 

According to Elliott Friedman, the Ducks will be retaining 50% of Manson's $4.1 million cap hit. 

Manson, who was originally taken by the Ducks with the 160th overall selection (6th round) of the 2011 NHL Draft, has four goals and five assists so far this season in 45 games played. A veteran of 453 career games, Manson has tallied 113 points along with a plus/minus rating of +39.