The 6-foot-2, 212-pounder, a potential restricted free agent, signed for $1.2 million, a source said.

"Steve is a young two-way defenseman that will fit in nicely with our group," Holmgren said.

Eminger, 24, was acquired with a third-round pick - it turned out to be goalie Jacob DeSerres - June 21 during the NHL draft from the Washington Capitals for a first-round choice (defenseman John Carlson).

In 20 regular-season games with Washington last season, Eminger registered two assists and eight penalty minutes. He scored a goal in the five-game playoff series against the Flyers.

"I'm happy to get the deal worked out and excited about being part of the organization," Eminger said. "I can't wait for the start of the season."

Holmgren also is trying to put the finishing touches on contracts with defenseman Randy Jones and right winger Riley Cote, two potential restricted free agents.

Restricted free agents must be signed by midnight tonight or be eligible for offer sheets from the NHL's other 29 teams.

The free-agent market opens tomorrow at noon.

As for Eminger, the Flyers are hoping a change of scenery will jump-start his career. In 212 regular-season games over parts of five seasons with Washington, Eminger tallied six goals, 37 assists and 221 penalty minutes. He originally was selected by the Capitals in the first round (12th overall) of the 2002 draft.

"Sometimes, you need a change," said Eminger, who excelled in the Ontario Hockey League, "and I'm looking forward to it."

Eminger often was a healthy scratch for Washington last season, but Holmgren said he expects him to be one of the six regular defensemen. "That's pretty encouraging, but after this year, you never take anything for granted," Eminger said. "It doesn't matter what people say. If you don't perform in training camp, the job's not yours. So I'm focused on my training this summer."