The Philadelphia Flyers suffered some brutal luck when both Braydon Coburn and Andrew MacDonald went down with injuries. Both men are expected to be out about a month, meaning Philadelphia’s questionable defense now has a couple of major holes. Considering the trade market appears to be fairly quiet, especially when it comes to defense, what are the Flyers going to do?
The answer may lie with Ryan Whitney. According to Philly.com, the Flyers have reached out to the defenseman who is currently skating with the KHL’s HC Sochi. His contract contains a clause which would allow him to return to the NHL whenever he desires. Whitney tried to find work in the NHL, but tryouts – such as his cup of coffee with the St. Louis Blues – failed to yield a contract. Whitney didn’t impress, but we can all agree his video about the Edmonton Oilers was brilliant.
For now, the Flyers will try Shayne Gostisbehere who is skating in his first year in the NHL. Obviously a rookie probably isn’t the best option, but the Flyers have few options considering their lack of cap space and the limited trade market. Whitney may decide to stay in the KHL, but he’s at least an option the Flyers have explored.
