Chuck Fletcher makes another brutal signing for the Flyers

According to a report from Sportsnet NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Philadelphia Flyers GM Chuck Fletcher is set to hand out a long-term contract extension to defenseman Travis Sanheim worth $6 million+ per season.

From Friedman:

Hearing PHI and Travis Sanheim are making progress on a long-term extension. Sanheim is scheduled to be a UFA. Sounds like in the $6M range, but not sure of the exact number.

- Elliotte Friedman

UPDATE: The Flyers have now announced the deal. 

It's an eight year deal worth $6.25 million per season.

Check it out:

"We're extremely happy to have Travis under long-term contract and see him as a key piece of our team's future," said Fletcher in a prepared statement. "Travis has improved each season to become a highly reliable player and key contributor on our blueline. Furthermore, he is someone who has developed his entire career with us and has grown into a valuable leader for our team."

"Obviously, I'm really excited. It's a huge day not only for me, but for my family and friends as well," said Sanheim in the same press release. "To be drafted not only by Philly, but in Philly, and now to sign a long-term deal here, it means a lot. I love this city, love the fan base and I'm excited to turn this around and get things going. There's no better place to win than Philly."

The 26 year old defenseman recorded seven goals and 31 points last season. The big blueliner is heading into his 6th season with the Flyers and is now unquestionably the team's #1 defenseman. We can quibble about whether or not he's worth $6.25 million but to me this is another bonhead signing from Fletcher. I mean, the Flyers aren't going to be a contender anytime soon and they have the likes of Sanheim, Kevin Hayes, Cam Atkinson and James van Riemdsyk all signed to big money or big term contracts. That's not a recipe for success, yet Fletcher keeps doubling down on signings like this. Thoughts, Flyers fans?