Flyers locked up newly-acquired defenseman Chris Pronger with a seven-year contract extension, according to the team.
Financial terms weren't revealed by the team but the deal was rumored to be worth $35 million, Pronger’s agent told Canadian Sportsnet (not to be confused with Comcast Sportsnet in Philly).
“We are pleased to have one of the NHL’s premier defensemen in our organization and under contract long term,” said Flyers General Manager Paul Holmgren.
Philadelphia traded for Pronger last month during the NHL draft, giving up Joffrey Lupul, Luca Sbisa and two first-round picks to the Anaheim Ducks. He only had one-year remaining on the deal he signed in Anaheim.
The extension made Pronger’s cap number $6.25 million this season and allows the Flyers to save $1.25 million in cap space next year. Maybe money they can spend to getting another winger.
The 6-foot-6, 213-pounder scored 11 goals with 37 assists in 82 games last season.
He helped lead the Ducks to the 2007 Stanley Cup. A feat he surely would like to repeat in Philly.
The 34-year-old defensive beast seemed pretty happy to get a deal done.
“I am very excited to be able to retire a Philadelphia Flyer and I am looking forward to many years with the Flyers logo on my chest,” said Pronger.
But it begs to be asked. Did the Flyers put too many years into an aging d-man who will be 42 when the contract expires.
