Flyers Acquire Johnson
(APF) The Flyers have acquired goaltender Brent Johnson. Although not the Flyers top choice or perhaps even their second choice, they have secured a backup. At the press conference GM Mannarino defended the trade as team critics feel Johnson is not the solution.
"Brent was one of the 3 goalies we targeted. We gave up a valuable asset in Marc Fraser (NHL NJ Devils Prospect) who will one day be a regular as a defensive defenseman in this league and the picks (3rd in 07, 4th in 06) should help the Predators' rebuilding efforts. We feel Brent will help us this year and possibly next if Hasek decides to retire."
With Irbe hurt and not expected back for 3 weeks, the deal comes at a good time for Philly. Hasek has not been able to start 3 games in a row since the start of the season and getting a capable backup was important for the teams playoff drive. That's probably the reason all the draft picks were included in the deal as well as the Flyers concerns about their goaltending increased with Irbe's injury.
The Flyers are not finished. With Whitney being shopped for another cheaper LW, the team is also on the lookout for a defensive defenseman to help out the defense down the stretch.
It's believed the Flyers are dangling either Paul Ranger, Mike Sauer or their 1st round pick for a short and long term answer on defense.
NHL Facts
1. Brent Johnson
Good News - Posted a 2.25GA ave , .928 SPCT and a 2-2 record in January
Bad News - February has arrived, 1st game allowed 5 goals
2. Marc Fraser
Good News - Drafted by NJ in the 3rd round and appears to have a good future.
Bad News - No longer a HF Flyers prospect.
3. Paul Ranger
Good News - Now getting top 4 D action in TB
Bad News - Still not a regular on the PP
4. Mike Sauer
Good News - After being drafted by NYR in the 2nd round, Sauer has played great for Portland. He's recovered from a hip injury that prevented him from being drafted in the 1st round.
Bad News - There is none, he has a great all around game and will make some teams wish they have overlooked his injury in his draft year.