Flyers trade JVR to Toronto for Schenn

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The Flyers have traded James van Riemsdyk to the Toronto Maple Leafs for defenseman Luke Schenn.

Schenn is the brother of Flyers' center Brayden Schenn. The 22-year-old was the fifth overall pick in 2008 and is entering his fifth year in the league. Schenn has 14 goals and 61 assists in his career. Last season, he set a career high with 20 assists.

Van Riemsdyk has already talked to Toronto GM Brian Burke and JVR said he is excited about the move.

The Flyers selected van Riemsdyk with the second overall pick in the 2007 draft. After signing a six-year, 25.5 million deal before last season, expectations were high for van Riemsdyk's 2011-12 season. But injuries plagued his season and he finished with 24 points (11 goals).

This off-season, van Riemsdyk has been the focal point of several trade rumors. But earlier this week, Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren told the 23-year-old he wouldn't be traded.Van Riemsdyk was a popular name in trade rumors involving Columbus' Rick Nash. But after he wasn't dealt during the first day of the draft, the move on Saturday afternoon was more of a surprise.

Earlier in the week, a report surfaced suggesting van Riemsdyk was delaying surgery to avoid being traded. Eventually, the team elected to not have JVR undergo surgery this off-season at all.

Van Riemsdyk was a part of plenty of trade rumors before February's trade deadline, even rumors involving Luke Schenn, but was relieved when he wasn't dealt back then and said he was "happy to still be a Flyer."

(more coming...)

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