Ducks Reacquire Center Semenov From the Flyers for Stretch Run

The Mighty Ducks tried to strengthen themselves for their playoff drive by reacquiring center Anatoli Semenov from Philadelphia on Tuesday.

The Ducks got Semenov and a prospect, University of Minnesota defenseman Mike Crowley, for prospect Brian Wesenberg, 18, a right winger who was a second-round pick last July. Crowley, 20, is a finalist for the Hobey Baker award, which goes to the best U.S. college player and was won by the Ducks’ Paul Kariya in 1993.

Semenov, 34, was the Ducks’ most skillful player in their first season and their leading scorer until teammate Stu Grimson dislocated Semenov’s elbow with an errant check. Semenov’s production faded after his return, and the Ducks sent him to Philadelphia last season for defenseman Milos Holan.

Now the Ducks see Semenov as a potential linemate for Teemu Selanne and Paul Kariya because of his creative play. He had three goals and 16 points in 44 games with the Flyers this season, but played mostly on their fourth line.

“He gives us a little more skill down the stretch,” General Manager Jack Ferreira said, calling the move something of a hunch bet.

Semenov, who will join the Ducks before their next game Friday at St. Louis, said he is happy about the trade and the chance to again be a full-time player.