Pronger misses practice, may not play vs. Ottawa

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Friday, February 25, 2011
Posted: 1:08 p.m.

By Tim Panaccio
CSNPhilly.com

Chris Pronger thought hed be able to play Saturday night in Ottawa. Now its beginning to appear as though that wont happen.

The Flyers recalled 22-year-old defenseman Erik Gustafsson from the Phantoms on Friday as insurance because Prongers right hand is swollen after taking a shot off it during Thursdays 4-3 overtime win against the Islanders.

His hand is a little bit swollen, general manager Paul Holmgren said. We did recall Gustafsson, so hell join the team in Ottawa. Whether Chris can play or not is too soon to tell. Well have a better idea tomorrow.

Pronger missed Fridays practice. He was to be seen by physicians for a follow-up Friday, but Holmgren didnt believe an MRI would be necessary. X-rays taken on Thursday night were negative. His injury occurred in the final six minutes of regulation.

Its just swollen; he had trouble gripping his stick today, Holmgren said.

Although Blair Betts (lacerated left finger) practiced with the team, he wore the no contact jersey. Holmgren didnt think Betts would make the trip, but said the centerman should be available next Thursday against Toronto.

E-mail Tim Panaccio at tpanotch@comcast.net

Related: Holmgren: Flyers need to play with more oomphBuy Flyers gear

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