In an attempt to better Philadelphia’s mobility on defense, Sami Kapanen will train and play some exhibition games on the point, reports the Philadelphia Enquirer.
Since his trade from Carolina in 2003, the speedy-right-winger has played a key two-dimensional game.
Sportsbook.com has Philadelphia listed at +1200 to win the Stanley Cup.
Kapanen’s defensive awareness and skill should help the Flyers in power-play and penalty-kill situations, coach Ken Hitchcock told the Enquirer.
"If you use a forward on defense on the power play and on the penalty kill, and late in the game you are down two goals, why not take the chance and put your best transitional player back there on defense? He gives you both offense and defense,” said Hitchcock.
It’s not the first time Kapanen has played defense for the Flyers. He did a good job holding the line in the 2004 playoffs when Philadelphia charged through their first two series, eventually being taken down in a grueling semi-final series with Tampa Bay, who went on to win the Cup.
The move won’t be permanent, but Hitchcock told the Enquirer he’s excited to see Kapanen help Philly’s D-line in key situations.
“We're going to let Kappy do this during camp and in the exhibitions. There are always special situations during the season that come up and you use two forwards on the point," said Hitchcock. We want Kappy to practice back there. Why not try it for an extended period in camp so he gets it down?"
A two-time All-Star and Olympian, Kapanen got 34 points in 58 games last season. His best season for points was 2001-2002, where he got 69 points.
Kapanen is known for his speed and playmaking ability.