How about them Philadelphia Flyerssss? The proud orange clad fans were thinking to themselves the past few days just when the Flyers were going to make a move. Well, Finally they did as the Flyers agreed to terms with a minute logging Defenceman Erik Gustafsson to a one-year deal. While he may not be a replacement for Matt Niskanen, he did however log 18:01 a night last season in a down year, over 20 minutes the year before.
Flyers’ General Manager Chuck Fletcher and the Flyers have been silent in free agency until now. Fletcher had to fill a void on the backend, and the Flyers agreed to terms on a one-year deal with Left-Handed Defenseman in Gustafsson. He makes his bread and butter on the Power Play. Gustafsson can also play the right side, as well. This more than further proves Fletcher believes in this team to remain a contender for the 2020-21 season, and is trying to fill the void left by the retired Matt Niskanen.
Click here to shop for our latest sporting apparel, and accessories from Flyers Nitty Gritty
Gustafsson is 6’0, weighing 197 pounds. This 28-year-old Defenseman had a bit of a down season for the Chicago Blackhawks in 2019-20, but he has tallied 28 goals, and has registered 88 assists for a total of 116 points for his career in 214 games played. Moreover, Gustafsson isn’t afraid to throw down the gloves for his teammates either, and he blocks shots. Hopefully, he doesn’t become a defensive liability in Alain Vigneault’s system.
Fletcher knew he had to snag a Defenseman that can log minutes, and Gustafsson can do that. For the most part he’s steady and reliable. A solid skating Defenseman that is good with taking away space from his opponents. Gustafsson can lead the rush in transitioning from Defense to Offense with the best of them.
The Flyers’ top brass means business this coming season. Gustafsson builds strength as a Lefty on the blue line for the Flyers, he is also versatile as he can play the right side. Within the next few seasons this classy organization is hoping to have a parade down Broad Street, and one that is tough to beat on a nightly basis. I just happen to believe that there is another move coming, as Gustafsson is very similar to Ghost.
Now trade Sanheim ghost to jets for Laine then sign peterangelo