On June 23, 2011 Flyers' GM Paul Holmgren pulled the trigger on two deals that shocked Flyers fans. Mike Richards and prospect Rob Bordson were traded to LA for Wayne Simminds, Brayden Schenn, and LA's 2012 second round pick. Next Holmgren traded Jeff Carter to the Columbus Blue Jackets for Jakub Voracek, a 2011 first round pick(Sean Couturier) and a 2011 third round pick. Both deals made room for the addition of future hall of fame forward Jaromir Jagr and goalie Ilya Bryzgalov.
In the 2010-2011 season the Flyers finished at 47-23-12 with 106 points and second seed. This season the Flyers finsished 47-26-9 with 103 points and fifth seed. Not much of a difference in the standing to have 3 full time rookies playing on the team in Sean Couturier, Brayden Schenn, and Matt Read.
All in all the NHL made a bad decision not putting Holmgren in the running for GM of the year. He truly deserved it. Hopefully if this young Flyers team helps bring home a cup soon they will realize his moves and put him on the ballet.
