Flyers select Plekhanov 32nd Overall

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - The Flyers have selected 18 year old russian defenseman Andrei Plekhanov with the Hawks 2nd round pick.

The draft pick was acquired in a deal for powerplay defenseman Paul Mara and will free up some more defensive spots for younger players on the Flyers team. Plekhanov played in Nizhnekamsk Neftekhimik (Russia) and collected 1 goal and 1 assist in 48 games and was solid defensively for the club.

Plekhanov comes with extremely high praise from former Neftekhimik (and current Moscow Dynamo) coach Krikunov, who has reportedly referred to him as “the future NHL star.” Plekhanov does not possess great size at 6’1, 187 lbs, but has a blend of defensive smarts and offensive skills. He’s effective with his stick and is physical enough to stand up to opposing power forwards.

The Flyers are currently shopping around the league looking for 3rd and 4th round draft picks since the team still has some interest in several of the remaining players. They are hoping to get a deal done by Saturdays draft day.