Over the last few weeks talk has been ramping up when it comes to acquiring a top 3 defenseman. Time and time again, every name that gets put out there, Tomas Kaberle, Francois Beauchemin, Joni Pitkanen, etc., gets shot down for many, many reasons.

Today though, I have a suggestion that might not have as many bullet holes in it, that suggestion is Ottawa defenseman Chris Campoli.

Obviously, Campoli is not a premier defenseman by name, but his performance this year in the wasteland of Ottawa has been admirable. Also, he is affordable ($1.4 million for this year), can be retained (RFA after this season), and won't cost a king's ransom in a trade.

Campoli is a 25 year old defenseman who can play second pairing minutes, penalty kill, and 2nd unit PP time. His addition would ideally help offset some of the special teams and possibly even strength time that Dan Boyle has been soaking up this year.

What is most appealing about this trade, is that might not cost a Devin Setoguchi or Ryane Clowe to complete. According to the linked article from the Silver Seven, Campoli may only cost a mid-round pick and/or a mid-range prospect. If this prognosis is correct, all that may be needed to swing this deal is Benn Ferriero and a 3rd/4th round pick. No need here to give up on a proven NHLer or a top tier prospect. Also the salary fits in perfectly with the current situation in San Jose.

Does this move in itself bring the cup to San Jose? Most likely not. Is it a good building block for the blue line now and into the future? Yes, if all it costs is Ferriero and a mid-round pick, I would support this deal fully.