On paper, getting an impact player of Chris Pronger’s caliber for a little less than $5 million (cap hit-wise) is a mind blowing steal. Despite failing to garner enough votes for a single Conn Smythe Trophy, I’ve made a passionate argument that he could have won it on three separate occasions - two of times on losing teams. (Yeah, I occasionally advance a hare brained theory or two. What’s it to you?)
There is a catch, though. The team thought it was getting a typical cap circumventing contract when they signed his deal. Just look at his year-by-year salaries via CapGeek.com. (Click to enlarge)
It’s painfully obvious that GM Paul Holmgren & Co. were under the impression that he would retire either in 2014-15 or 2015-16, but they failed to recognize that the 35+ penalty would kick in since Pronger will turn that age in October. So, even if Pronger retires (and there’s a decent chance he’d want to since he’d only be paid the league minimum during the last two seasons), the Flyers will still be responsible for that $4.9 million-plus cap hit.
Why do I bring up his contract situation? Because any report like this has to make you a little worried about the controversial defenseman’s future health. This comes straight from the Philadelphia Flyers.
Holmgren: “Chris Pronger had minor surgery on his right knee last week. He will be ready for the start of training camp.”