JVR practices, Might Be In The Lineup For Game Five

James Van Reimsdyk had a lethal postseason in 2010. He saw ice time in 11 games, scoring 7 goals en route to a Stanley Cup Final loss to the Chicago Blackhawks.

Van Reimsdyk showcased to the Flyers organization and their fans that he was worthy of the number two overall draft pick pick in 2007. His postseason performance also led to the 23 year old forward receiving a  6 year $25.5 million contract extension.

James Van Reimsdyk entered the 2011-2012 season with a boat load of expectations. That's what happens when your taken exactly one draft pick behind Patrick Kane who has 126 career goals compared to Van Reimsdyk's 47. (Kane has also played in more season, four for Kane, three for JVR).

The season has not worked out as envisioned for both the Flyers or Van Reimsdyk, as the third year forward had to battle through injuries all season long, which ended in a broken foot that ended his season.


Until now. 


Van Reimsdyk practiced today and said he is good to go for game 5 against the Penguins on Friday night. Whether head coach Peter Laviolette inserts him into the lineup remains to be seen. Van Reimsdyk wore plastic shells over top of his skates to protect him from firing pucks and said he would wear them during game action if thats what it took to get him back on the ice.

If Van Reimsdyk can in fact lace up the skates and return to the Flyers active roster, he could resurrect his disappointing and injury ridden season, and add another weapon to the already hot Flyers offensive game.

Whether Van Reimsdyk is worthy of the $25.5 million extension is up for debate, considering he netted only 11 goals and 13 assists in 23 games this season. But when this guy is on, he has proven that he has top notch talent and would be a helpful addition. Especially considering that he shows up when the games are crucial.

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In other injury news, defenseman Nicklas Grossman played in only nine minutes in last nights shellacking. Grossman took two separate shots to the dome, and did not practice today. It is possible that Grossman suffered a concussion which would be a huge loss to a defense that is already without Chris Pronger, but the team has not issued out a statement regarding any apparent injury to Grossman.