Flyers acquire D Nicklas Grossman

With Chris Pronger out for the season, we knew the Flyers would be looking to add help along the blueline.  They got some today, acquiring D Nicklas Grossman from the Stars for a 2nd round pick in 2012 and a 3rd round pick in 2013.  Grossman, 27 and on the last year of his contract, is earning 1.625 million this year and will be a UFA next year.

Grossman, a 6 year NHL veteran, doesn't put up big scoring numbers but that isn't what the Flyers are missing with Pronger out of the lineup.  Grossman will provide the Flyers with plenty of size (6 foot 3, 227 pounds) and quality defensive play in the back end.  He will also provide some physicality and can kill penalties and block shots.

Is the acquisition of Grossman enough to replace everything the Flyers have lost with Pronger out of the lineup?  No, but they at least add another piece without giving up anything on their current roster.  The Flyers routinely give up draft picks so it's not at all shocking to see them give a few away for immediate help.  With the NHL trade deadline approaching, expect more moves in the coming days.