Friday, June 26, 2009

Flyers acquire Chris Pronger before draft begins

Most observers tuning into the 2009 NHL Entry Draft on Versus or The Sports Network (TSN) were likely anticipating a trade involving either Florida Panthers defenseman Jay Bouwmeester or Ottawa Senators forward Dany Heatley.

But instead, a player who has been rumored to be on the trading block stole the spotlight as the Anaheim Ducks traded defenseman Chris Pronger to the Philadelphia Flyers. In the deal, forward Joffrey Lupul returns to Anaheim while defenseman Luca Sbisa joins him. The Flyers' #21st overall draft pick (later traded to Columbus where they selected John Moore), their 2010 first round draft pick and a conditional third round draft pick were also sent to the Ducks. Also coming to Philadelphia is forward Ryan Dingle, a player who accumulated just 18 points in 70 games for the American Hockey League's Iowa Chops last season.

The Flyers later announced on their official Twitter page that Pronger will wear #25 on his orange and black jersey next season. Fellow defenseman Matt Carle will switch to #20.

Philadelphia Flyers official news release
(June 26):
Flyers acquire Chris Pronger

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