With a limited budget this offseason, the Flyers aren't going to be making as much noise as in past years, and they certainly won't be signing anyone to 12 year contracts, but they do have some needs. Particularly, they need goaltending, since both Martin Biron and Antero Nittymaki are unrestricted free agents. They were also looking to bring back winger Mike Knuble, but that isn't going to happen, after the soon to be 37 year old signed a two year contract with the Washington Capitals this afternoon. Knuble was a good player when he was with the Flyers, and he scored 27 goals and added 20 assists last season. The Flyers were trying to work with him to bring him back, but they didn't want to add a second year to the contract, while Washington did. I wish him the best of luck, unless he's playing the Flyers.
The Flyers countered Knuble leaving by signing Ian Laperriere away from the Colorado Avalanche. While Laperriere scored only seven goals last season, he did manage to rack up 163 penalty minutes, so he'll be popular here in Philly. The Flyers also brought back a familiar face to play backup goalie, as Brian Boucher is coming back, thanks to a two year deal worth $1.8 million. The Flyers also have Ray Emery locked in on a one year deal to be the starter in net, so it looks like that's who the duo will be this year.
Now, I'm not going to lie, I am a little concerned with losing both Knuble and Joffrey Lupul, as it takes 52 goals away from last season. However, Claude Giroux is going to get more ice time, and hopefully Danny Briere is back for the full season, so that should make up the difference. I'm also concerned about the goalie situation, as Boucher is a fine backup, but if Emery goes off the deep end, like he's prone to do, it could be a problem. Either way, with the salary cap situation the way it is for the Flyers right now, I don't know what else they're going to do.
ESPN.com: Washington signs Knuble
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