The Carolina Hurricanes have addressed their need for another experienced defenseman, acquiring Bryan Allen from the Florida Panthers in exchange for veteran winger Sergei Samsonov.

Allen, 30, is in his tenth NHL season and has another season at $2,9 million remaining on his contract.

The Panthers continue to be in rebuilding mode by dumping veterans so it wasn't surprising Allen joined former Panthers blueliner Dennis Wideman and Bryan McCabe out of Florida.

Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford suggested prior to the trade deadline he wanted to add another veteran defenseman. Allen, 6-5 and 220 lbs, should provide a decent physical presence to the Carolina blueline.

It's a bit surprising the Panthers however wanted the 32-year-old Samsonov, given that they've been busily dumping veteran players in recent days, but this move helps them clear the remainder of Allen's contract from their books.

In 58 games with the Hurricanes Samsonov, a former NHL rookie of the year, had 26 points and is clearly on the downside of his career. He is an unrestricted free agent at season's end and won't be re-signed.