Simon Gagne Acquired By Lightnings For Matt Walker
Posted Mon, Jul 19, 2010 by Eligio Tapiador Jr.
Simon Gagne, formerly from Philadelphia Flyers was acquired by the Tampa Bay Lightning last Monday for Matt Walker.
Throughout the off season, the trade rumors about Gagne circulated. It was believed that a move was in limbo because of uncertainty to what team IIya Kovalchuk would be placed. Several hours after Kovalchuk announced that he will be going back to the New Jersey Levels, the trade was announced by Steve Yzerman, the general manager of the Lightnings.
According to Yzerman, he and Pail Holmgren, the general manager of the Flyers, started talking about the possibilities of trades that will be made during the draft. The Lightnings were looking for another top-six forwards and Gagne will best fit the team.
“I like his all-around game. He plays in all situations. He is a responsible defensive player. He has the speed and can score goals.” This was the statement given by Yzerman.
The entire career of Gagne was with the flyers. His records were making 524 points and 259 goals in the 664 games he played in his career. Gagne ranks in the ninth place among the all-time Flyers list of goals, tenth place for points and eleventh place for power play goals.
Last season, a hernia surgery was needed by Gagne and it was held to 17regular-season goals. Flyers reached the Stanley Cup for the first time when Gagne scored nine playoff goals. The Flyers defeated the Boston Bruins during the game four of the second round where Gagne returned to the games from his broken toe. It was very crucial 3-0 series that led to their victory.
To facilitate the trade, Gagne was required to waive a no-movement clause.
“I’m really looking forward to playing with guys like Lecavalier, Stamkos and St. Louis” said Gagne.
Yzerman was aware of the history of Gagne’s injury. Also, according to Yzerman, Gagne will be motivated that he must prove himself to be healthy.
“I’m comfortable that he is healthy now and will start the season healthy… I believe he is over all the injuries that he’s had in the past” said Yzerman.
Gagne makes $5.25 million will become an unrestricted free agent after the current season. Gagne gave the Flyers the chance to get him back under the salary cap.
“Gagne played 1- seasons for the Flyers and was not only a good player for us, but also handled himself in a first-class manner on and off the ice” said Holmgren.
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