Well folks, Chuck Fletcher listened to the fans and made a move. That many hoped would provide a solid net front presents due to his build and provide size to be a scoring threat on the Wing. Yes I’m talking about Isaac Ratcliffe. He was traded to Nashville for future considerations. This move gets rid of one contract for the Flyers, and they now sit with a total of 47 contracts.
With that being said, James van Riemsdyk will be the next player moved, and the only question that remains is when. He could be moved as early as today, now that teams are pivoting towards JvR after striking out on Timo Meier. Things are heating up for JvR’s services, and these teams include, the Minnesota Wild, Pittsburgh Penguins, Carolina Hurricanes, or the Dallas Stars.
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Chuck Fletcher, for once has leverage in a deal. Look at what Tanner Jeannot netted the Nashville Predators after just one 20 goal season in his career, yes I know Tampa has full control over him given his RFA status:
The Middletown, NJ native can be a force to be reckoned in front of the net. In fact, camping out in front of the net is van Riemsdyk’s bread and butter. He has some of the best hand-eye coordination in the league, and it was on a big stage earlier in the season before his injury. Usually, JvR can pot 20-25 goals per season, but this has been an up and down season SCORING wise for him. JvR for once has been a solid two-way player, but he has lacked the finish. Maybe a change of scenery will do him justice, as when he gets hot there aren’t many people in the league that can stop him. This is why he remains coveted for those teams that missed out on Meier.
Of course, the Flyers will retain salary, but I believe the Flyers could get a second or third round pick, with a Grade “B” prospect type. It would be nice to get a project prospect in return for him, like Owen Tippett was, but that is a dream in reality. Whatever the case maybe, JvR will be gone before the trade deadline commences on Friday.
