In a deal that flew below everybody's radar, the Lightning on Friday traded defenseman Matt Carle and a 2009 third-round draft pick to the Flyers for defenseman Steve Eminger, right wing Steve Downie and a 2009 fourth-round draft pick.

Carle, acquired on July 4 from San Jose in the Dan Boyle deal, was very up and down for Tampa Bay. He showed moments of real skill, but as often was poor in the defensive zone. He also was making $2.95-million this season. Eminger has not been fabulous for the Flyers, either.

He has two assists, eight penalty minutes and has an even plus-minus in 12 games and is averaging 17:52 of ice time. Carle has a goal and an assist, is plus-1 and averages 21:57.   

Eminger is a right-handed shot, something that is few and far between on the blue line, and is making $1.2-million. So, I guess if you are going to trade one inconsistent defenseman for another, you might as well clear $1.7-million of cap and salary space.

Downie, you might recall from last season's 20-game suspension for running Ottawa's Dean McAmmond during a preseason game. Downie is expected to report to AHL Norfolk.