Bryzgalov joins Ducks on tryout

ANAHEIM, Calif. — A familiar face will be arriving in Southern California just in time to see his new (or old) team face the Flyers.

Goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov will join the Anaheim Ducks on a tryout contract this week, the Ducks confirmed an ESPN report on Wednesday. Regular Ducks backup Jason LaBarbera will miss approximately 2-3 weeks with a broken hand.

Bryzgalov, 34, skated with Minnesota in training camp but his tryout there never materialized in an NHL contract.

Now, after waiting a few months in South Jersey with his family, Bryzgalov is expected to earn a contract to back up Frederik Andersen. Bryzgalov won a Stanley Cup with Anaheim in 2006-07 while serving as J.S. Giguere's protege.

The Flyers just happen to be in Anaheim for tonight's game (10:30 p.m.) against the first place Ducks at Honda Center. Strangely, Edmonton signed Bryzgalov to a deal on Nov. 8, 2013, on the eve of their visit to Philadelphia.

Bryzgalov split last season between Edmonton (20 games) and Minnesota (12), compiling a .909 save percentage.

Future Hall of Fame goaltender Martin Brodeur joined the St. Louis Blues on a tryout contract last week before signing a deal to stay with the team.

Bryzgalov is being paid $1,642,857 annually by the Flyers through 2026-27 as part of his $23 million buyout package.

On Twitter: @frank_seravalli