Philadelphia Flyers' New Defender Nick Boynton Making an Impact

Although people in Philadelphia may not know much about Nick Boynton, the well-traveled, journeyman defender could be a big part of the Flyers success this postseason.

The Flyers defense is one of the strongest and deepest in the NHL, but it’s also one of the oldest. Chris Pronger (37), Kimmo Timonen (turns 36 in March) and Sean O’Donnell (39) are all older and may be more susceptible to injuries through the playoffs.

That’s where Boynton comes in. He can take care of business for the Flyers when one of their top six defensemen needs a day off and he is a completely viable option in case of injuries.

“I am just looking to help this team anyway I can,” Nick Boynton said. “I just play my game and try to help the team win. I want to bring experience and try to work hard and play solid defense when I get the opportunity.”

While the depth at defense has been solid all year, Boynton makes $500,000 and will be a free agent at season's end.

It’s a no-risk situation.

Boynton, who is 32 years old himself, was claimed by the Philadelphia Flyers off of waivers from the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Blackhawks needed him last season with the injuries on their blue line down the stretch. He played in three playoff games, including clinching Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals against his now teammates.

“It was weird to come into the locker room and have guys ask you what it’s like to win the Cup,” Boynton said about his move from Chicago to Philadelphia. “I am excited to join a great franchise and help them win the Cup this year.”

Boynton is the second Blackhawks player the Flyers have brought in this season, the other being winger Kris Versteeg.

“The guys on the team have been great, and if I had to go anywhere besides Chicago, Philadelphia would have been my choice,” Boynton said.

With an injury to Chris Pronger, Boynton played in his first game with the Flyers in a victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday, Mar. 10.

"It's been a while, but it's what I do, so I'm looking forward to it," Boynton said to the press before the game. "It's better than practicing all the time."

With Boynton’s added talent, the Flyers defense looks even stronger than before. They are obviously making plans for a deep playoff run.