Seth Vigdor
Philadelphia defenseman Mark Streit is set to make his return to the Flyers lineup. He’s been out of action since Nov. 12 after having surgery to repair a pubic plate detachment. Streit is expected to be back in the lineup on Wednesday night against the Sharks. The Flyers will need to lose about $860,000 in salary cap money once they make their official decision.
Streit spoke to reporters after practice on Monday. Streit has three goals and six assists on the season. He had this to say via Philly.com.
It feels strong and my skating is strong. There are no restrictions at all and I feel comfortable. It’s just a matter of getting my timing back.”
That leaves us with the million dollar question of who will be removed from the main roster in order to make room for Streit?
According to general manager Ron Hextall, the Flyers will have to clear less than $300,000 in salary-cap space to keep rookie sensation Shayne Gostisbehere on the roster.
Flyers insider Tim Panaccio reported that head coach Dave Hakstol said on Saturday that Gostisbehere would remain on the first unit power play and Streit would move to the second unit once activated. The implication being that “Ghost” will stay on the roster going forward.
It would be a huge mistake in my opinion to do anything other than keep Gostisbehere on the main roster.
Since getting the call up, Ghost has posted 14 points in 19 games including several game-winners. He has six goals and eight assists.
Hakstol says of Gostisbehere:
Ghost has done a good job for us. He has added an element. He has things he has to continue to improve upon. … Certainly, he has been a good player for us.”
One option to free up space for Streit is to put R.J. Umberger on waivers. If he clears, they can send him to the Phantoms.
The official decision will be made in the next day or so.
UPDATE: The Flyers have placed Sam Gagner on waivers.
Flyers put Sam Gagner on waivers https://t.co/M9az9q7ZIB
— NBC Sports EDGE Hockey (@NBCSEdgeHK) December 29, 2015
There you go.