Mike Knuble signs with the Capitals

With the acquisition of Chris Pronger adding money to their payroll, we knew some Flyers where going to have to go to make room. Mike Knuble is the first, signing a 2 year deal with the Washington Capitals for 2.8 million per year. Knuble was an unrestricted free agent who could talk with any team, but he made it clear that he wanted to stay with the Flyers if they were willing to match any offer given to him. The Flyers smartly chose not to match, since signing Knuble at that price wouldn't leave them with enough money to sign a backup goalie and another forward.

So long, Mike Knuble. He spent 4 years with the Flyers, putting up nearly 30 goals a season. He is about to turn 37, so his best years are clearly behind him, but he will still be a tough player to replace. Knuble has a strong presence on the power play, so they will miss him battling it out in front of the net.

The Flyers once again lose a useful player due to salary cap constrictions. Let's see what they do with the little money they have to work with now.