Gratton called up; Nodl sent down; goalie update

Aaron Asham proved to us last night that he's a bit more than an enforcer. Every once in a while, he'll show off the offensive skills, which gives him a steady hand up on fellow tough guy Josh Gratton.

Apparently though, the Flyers felt that Asham could use his counterpart as they recalled Gratton from the Phantoms. He fills a roster spot voided by Andreas Nodl, who was sent down due to his lack of production. It's a smart move to send the young guy down, since he's gotten oodles of (Nodls) chances to score and hasn't been able to bury one, which could hurt a rookies' confidence. Let him relax in the AHL, destroy the competition, and then come back and give it another go.

Also, Scott Munroe was sent back to the Phantoms to play tonight's game, which the good guys won 5-2 (seven straight wins!). He will be called back up in time to back up Antero Niittymaki tomorrow afternoon at the Center. Again, it's like beating a dead horse, but we're going to miss the convenience of the Phantoms when they're forced to move elsewhere next year.

Niittymaki could start both back-to-back games this weekend, but Stevens has yet to make a decision. Marty Biron is still out with a lingering flu bug and his time of return is still unknown.

Panaccio: Gratton to Pick on Those His Own Size - CSNPhilly.com

Other quick notes: We're in the midst of Philly versus DC weekend as the Sixers took on the Wizards tonight, the Flyers face the Caps tomorrow, and the Eagles play the Redskins on Sunday. Philly is 1-0 so far thanks to the Sixers 109-103 win. Let's get the sweep.