Photo Credit: Getty Images
This has become a common theme this year evidently. The Flyers pluck…and the Flyers plucked…This time the Flyers plucked Kevin Connauton off waivers from the Florida Panthers. It’s not like Keith Yandle or Nick Seeler have been good as of late, and deserve the 6th/7th defensive spot. Connauton was plucked for these purposes, and to add physicality to the lineup.
A native of Edmonton, AB, CAN, Connauton stands at 6’2 and weighs 205 pounds. He is physical, and Connauton has NHL experience. Connauton has suited up in 13 games with the Panthers season, and of course he has registered 28 hits for the Panthers. The guy can throw down the mitts with the best of them too, and that may also be a reason why Fletcher scooped him up. When you think of the metropolitan division you have the likes of Jared MCann, Ryan Reaves, and Tom Wilson. Now enter Connauton, the Flyers have to match the toughness of the division.
Connauton, 31, is an NHL journeyman, who will now play for his seventh franchise in his NHL career. He is known for his hitting, grit, and just being a hard-nosed player to play against.
Flyers General Manager Chuck Fletcher continues to revamp the team with physicality. Connauton will see time against the more physical teams, and at times he will be the seventh Defenseman. He takes over a role that when healthy Samuel Morin would be utilized for.
This native of Canada in Connauton is not afraid to stick up for his teammates. That is what separates him from a lot of players. He can lay a big hit, and provides much needed energy when he is on the ice. Connauton apparently does not take a shift off, and will do what is necessary to win the hockey game.
Some people may have not have heard about Connauton, but once he puts on that orange and black sweater all things will change.
Check out our Flyers Nitty Gritty Store
