[blueandwhite]

in exchange for a sixth round draft pick in 2008.

[blueandwhite]

Not sure, on reflection, why Ottawa wants lapointe.
this from faceoff.com:
ASSETS: Is extremely industrious, tough and usually disciplined. Can score big goals and plays a strong two-way game. Has excellent leadership skills. FLAWS: Isn't the big-time scorer he once was as a junior player. Does not make his presence known as often as he needs to. CAREER POTENTIAL: Third line right wing.

[Lefty Noob]

Maybe they think they can help him regain his junior league forum?

[blueandwhite]

more detailed info explains it better for me - mostly saying he is a veteran to help the kids:

What does it give the Ottawa Senators?
Lapointe gives the mostly-young Sens' core another veteran hand to help guide their quest for Lord Stanley's grail. He is a gutsy, tough, no-nonsense clubhouse leader who will do what it takes to win, and will lead by both example and vocal force. He's a third-or-fourth-line guy at this point, but a valuable one.

What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks?
Another draft pick for their youth movement, and a little locker-room clarity. The 'Hawks are rebuilding with a young core and while Lapointe helped lead that team, the team needs to start looking for younger leaders in the locker-room. They get solid compensation for a character guy here.

Short Term Analysis
The Sens benefit by having Lapointe bring his winning attitude and fire to the dressing room.

[blazinsabrez61]

havent heard much about lapointe, may be one of those unheard stars from the west
ottawa could definitely use a little more distribution in their lines instead of stacking their first one, if they want to be successful
they are very inconsistent - one night they light up the ice, the next they lose 5-0 to the leafs. (nice job toronto!!) at least buffalo is semi-consistent, whether they have a long losing or winning streak
definitely think we still have a chance to catch up on the senators, because they are beginning to fall behind in the standings
as long as the sabres win the majority of their games they should be in great shape
especially with the addition of bernier
did any of you hear about his great start?