Flyers Acquire Pavel Kubina from Lightning

The Philadelphia Flyers have announced that they have acquired defenseman Pavel Kubina from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for left wing Jonathon Kalinski, a conditional second round pick in either 2012 or 2013, and Philadelphia's fourth round pick in 2013. The Flyers originally acquired the second round pick from the Florida Panthers in the Kris Versteeg trade this past off-season. Kubina, who is eligible for unrestricted free agency this summer, has three goals and eight assists for 11 points and 59 penalty minutes in 52 games with the Lightning. Kalinski has appeared in 40 games with Adirondack of the AHL, scoring nine goals and three assists for 12 points. He last appeared in the NHL during the 2009-10 season with Philadelphia. After acquiring Nicklas Grossman from the Dallas Stars just two days prior, it was believed the Flyers would look to add more depth to their blueline and they did just that in landing Kubina. While his offensive game is on the decline, he will add plenty of veteran depth and toughness to the lineup. He is also capable of logging lots of minutes and has a good shot, so he should be a solid addition for the Flyers. As for the Lightning, it has been a disappointing 2011-12 campaign for them, so they are in the process of moving out impending free agents for assets. Kalinski could see some time on the team's checking lines throughout the remainder of the season, but it remains to be seen if he will fit into their future plans, as he's eligible for group six unrestricted free agency this summer. The biggest part of this deal for the Lightning are the draft picks, which they will use to restock their team with young talent.