Alexander Semin, or as other fans may know him, "Sasha," was drafted 13th overall by the Washington Capitals in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, and made an early impression.

With the exception of his first season, Semin has been one of the better forwards in the league. He hasn't had a season under 42 points, and he is relied on heavily in Washington to spark the offense. Whether you care to agree or not, Semin has done his job.

In more recent years, however, Washington fans have begun to turn on Semin, and accusing him of being a lazy player, and a guy who has no heart. While I can't fully disagree with everything that is said about him, I don't think he's a bad player. However, he may not be living up to the money he's making.

I think what Alex needs is a change of scenery. He's never played for another NHL team in his career, and the Capitals have been a struggling team as of late. When Semin signed a one-year extension with the Caps last season, I immediately saw it as a "prove yourself or you're out" type of contract.

So far, I don't think Washington is all that impressed with his play, and I think it's just a matter of time before he's traded or signs elsewhere.

Now, before people start throwing the gauntlet at me, let me be clear. I don't see Semin ever coming to Philly, but it may not be as bad of an idea as most people think.

Sure, he's got the "lazy Russian" stereotype, but Semin may benefit from playing for a new team. I know the Flyers went through this last year with Zherdev, but I feel that this could play out differently. 

Personally, I think Semin would fit great with Peter Laviolette's system, and it's no secret that the Flyers are a bit of an offensive juggernaut. Put him on a line with Danny Briere or Claude Giroux and you instantly have an insane line. 

Think about it. Semin will probably not command as much on the open market after his recent play, so he may come at a bit of a discount. On top of that, he's still really young. He's only 27. He's got a bunch of years ahead of him, and could be a perfect fit if the Flyers lose Jagr or other forwards via trade or free agency. 

If the Flyers could lock him up for say, five to seven years, the cap hit would probably be low, so his salary wouldn't be incredibly hard to manage. How would you like to see a Giroux/Semin combo? I think it would look nasty, personally.

While it's unlikely that Semin will ever suit up for Philadelphia, especially because the Caps aren't about to trade him within their conference, it's fun to imagine. He could be a good option if he makes it to free agency, although I don't think it will be much longer before the Caps make a trade.

What do you think? Would you like to see Semin in the Orange and Black?

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