Arber Xhekaj #72 of the Montreal Canadiens celebrates after scoring a goal during the first period of Game Six of (Photo by Arianne Bergeron/NHLI via Getty Images) The Philadelphia Flyers are continuing their search for a physical defenseman, and as per reports, two names have specifically emerged as potential targets this time, namely New York Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov and Montreal Canadiens blueliner Arber Xhekaj.The reason these names were considered specifically is due to the Flyers general manager Daniel Briere’s interest in strengthening the defense lineup of his team. The rumor was further confirmed by NHL insider Marco D’Amico that the Philadephia Flyers have not entirely abandoned the pursuit of Xhekaj, and simultaneously they are planning to acquire Romanov as well.
The Philadelphia Flyers continue their search for physical defenseman targets Alexander Romanov and Arber Xhekaj
As the Philadelphia Flyers are continuing their search for a physical defenseman, speculation is suggesting that they are targeting potential candidates like Alexander Romanov and Arber Xhekaj.According to PuckPedia.com, Philadelphia has nearly $14 million in projected cap space. This figure could increase further if the Flyers trade veteran defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen, who is entering the final year of his contract with a $5.1 million average annual value.Reports suggest that the Flyers have already committed new contracts to several key players this offseason, including Trevor Zegras, Jamie Drysdale, Tyson Foerster and goaltender Dan Vladar. Despite those moves, the club still has room to strengthen its roster.Meanwhile, NHL insider Marco D’Amico stated, “Philadelphia, I can see, 100%. “This is a team that likes that style, and they’ve been looking for a defenseman all summer. They were in on [John] Carlson. They were very interested in Darnell Nurse. I’ve been told they’ve kicked tires on Alexander Romanov. They’re looking for that kind of player.”He is also of the opinion that Xhekaj would certainly be the more economical choice for the Philadelphia Flyers, as the insider is predicting that the defenseman will receive a deal in the $2-$3 million range this summer.Again, Alexander Romanov would be a much bigger commitment for the Flyers as the New York Islanders previously signed the defenseman to an eight-year, $50 million contract, carrying a $6.25 million AAV. The deal keeps Romanov under contract through 2033 and includes a no-trade clause, meaning he would have to approve any potential move to the Flyers.In addition to this, Romanov also offers more offensive production than Xhekaj, but both defensemen bring a physical presence to the blue line. Recent reports suggest that Romanov is coming off a significant shoulder injury after taking a controversial hit from Dallas Stars forward Mikko Rantanen, adding another factor for the Flyers to consider.Now, it will be interesting to see if the Philadelphia Flyers will consider them for their defensive lineup in the upcoming season or look for other better opportunities in other clubs as well.