Lindros snubs Flyers

Aug 30, 2008 - 10:16 PM TORONTO (Ticker) -- The Philadelphia Flyers are planning to pay tribute to their former captains this preseason. Eric Lindros will not be among the honorees.

According to a report by TSN of Canada on Saturday, Lindros declined an invitation to take part in the special ceremony at the Wachovia Spectrum on September 27 due to a previous commitment.

Acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Quebec Nordiques in June 1992, Lindros was named captain of the Flyers as a 21-year-old in 1994. The 6-4, 230-pounder spent eight seasons with Philadelphia, winning the Hart Trophy in 1995, but suffered numerous concussions that limited his playing time and effectiveness as a power forward.

Lindros missed the entire 2000-01 season due to post-concussion syndrome and was traded to the New York Rangers in August 2001 following a lengthy and bitter feud with general manager Bob Clarke. He went on to play for Toronto and Dallas before retiring in November 2007.

Currently an ombudsman for the NHL Players Association, Lindros is one of 15 players who have served as captain for the Flyers. Among those who will attend the ceremony in September are Clarke, Mel Bridgman, Dave Poulin, Bill Barber and Keith Primeau.

After serving as the home of the Flyers from their inaugural season in 1967-68 to 1995-96, the Spectrum currently houses the American Hockey League's Philadelphia Phantoms. However, the arena will be shut down and demolished following the 2008-09 campaign.