Philadelphia Flyers right wing Steve Downie left Wednesday 2-1 preseason victory.

October 2, 2008

Philadelphia Flyers right wing Steve Downie left Wednesday 2-1 preseason victory. Over the Washington Capitals in the second period following a fight with Jay Beagle.

The 21-year-old Downie suffered a left knee strain after falling to the ice. He did not return to the contest and is expected to undergo an MRI on Thursday.

Downie was suspended 20 games by the NHL in October for delivering a hit to the head of Ottawa Senators left wing Dean McAmmond in a preseason game.

The 2005 first-round pick registered six goals and 12 points in 32 games for the Flyers last season.

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Flyers sign first-round pick Sbisa.

The Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday signed defenseman Luca Sbisa, their top pick in this past Junes draft.
Terms were not disclosed.
Sbisa, 18, is scoreless with eight penalty minutes in four preseason games with the Flyers. The native of Switzerland spent last season with Lethbridge of the Western Hockey League, recording six goals and 27 assists in 62 contests.

We consider Luca a good, young prospect for us, Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said. We are happy to have it done. He has continued to play well for us through training camp. The fact that he is still here (in training camp) shows that we think very highly of him.

It is a great feeling, said Sbisa, who was drafted 19th overall. I have been working for this moment since I started playing hockey. I came here and told myself to do my best, have fun and see what happens. I just want to gain as much experience as I can and see what happens.

Sbisa participated in the 2008 CHL Top Prospects Game and was a member of Team Switzerland at the 2008 World Junior Championship Tournament.