It won’t be the most glamorous of signings on July 1, the first day of free agency, but it will be big one for the Flyers, who are sure to ink their backup goaltender for the 2009-10 season.
Typically, the backup position is a remedial selection that has little significance toward the upcoming season. But with the acquisition of unpredictable Ray Emery, the backup role for the Philadelphia Flyers is suddenly worth taking a careful look at it.
At the top of the Flyers’ list is former goalie Brian Boucher. Boucher fits perfectly with the team, as he is an inexpensive proven backup that has close ties with the Philadelphia area. It has been rumored that the Flyers may not even look farther than Boucher, who has the job if he wants it. He will likely sign for less than $1 million. Boucher spent last season with the Sharks, going 12-6, with a 2.71 GAA and .900% save percentage.
Others on the short list of possible backups include Craig Anderson from Florida, who made $575k last season, but will likely command $1 million or more after a solid season. Same with New Jersey’s Scott Clemmenson, who made $500k last season, but may get tapped to be a starter somewhere.
One final name to look at is Ty Conklin, who may have the best reputation for a backup goalie in the league. Conklin is very good at filling in when it counts, going 25-11 with 2.51 GAA last season with the Red Wings. He has a career save percentage of .909% and could be had for less than $1 million.
Phila.Bright 