Flyers Bring Zherdev Back From Russia

 

The last time Nikolai Zherdev was in the National Hockey League, it was two seasons ago for the New York Rangers. The Rangers acquired the former fourth overall selection from the Columbus Blue Jackets, who deemed him a disappointment within their organization. The Rangers would soon learn why Columbus was more than eager to dump Zherdev on them for a steady stay-at-home presence in Fedor Tytutin that had contrarily developed so well within the Rangers organization. For as capable a goal scorer as he is, Zherdev is as inconsistent as they come and never showed a true passion or committment to the game in the NHL.

That's why it came as a shock a few days ago when Puck Daddy's Dmitry Chesnokov reported that the Philadelphia Flyers signed Zherdev (which was initially disputed.) It was even more shocking when that report turned into an official agreement on Friday. General Manager Paul Holmgren inked the 25-year old to a one-year deal for $2 million.