Flyers Trade Rumors 2012: Philadelphia Could Look To Shore Up Defense

The Philadelphia Flyers are 31-18-7 this season, thanks an offense that is second in the NHL averaging 3.2 goals per game. Despite their overall success, the Flyers have struggled of late, dropping five of their last six games heading into Thursday's bout against the Buffalo Sabres. Defense has been the culprit for the most part, with opponents scoring at least four goals in four of those losses. With the 2012 NHL trade deadline less than two weeks away from its Feb. 27 date, the Flyers may look to add another defenseman or goaltender to the mix.

Or maybe not. As David Strehle points out, the Flyers were doing just fine before their post All-Star break struggles. Still, there is a clear lack of a physical presence in the area in front of the net for Philadelphia, something that could perhaps be remedied with the addition of someone like Hal Gill of the Montreal Canadiens.

With Ilya Bryzgalov and Sergei Bobrovsky struggling between the pipes, another goaltender could be in the cards as well, though whether there are any viable options available is unclear. With several hot young offensive weapons to potentially deal, the Flyers could also look to make a big splash grabbing a name like Rick Nash, though it would hardly be necessary for a team already putting up plenty of points.

For more trade rumors, stay tuned to SB Nation Philly, as well as Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey.