Saying that the biggest thing the Philadelphia Flyers need to do ahead of this season’s NHL trade deadline is figure out who wants to be a Flyer, Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli notes that this year isn’t necessarily about that big trade that nets them a huge return or find a piece that pushes them into the playoffs. It’s about finding out who is ready to buy in and who isn’t.
Seravalli writes:
“Part of what made Saturday’s clash with Cutter Gauthier must-watch was the pride the Flyers’ roster showed for the organization, clearly taking it personally. That’s the next step at this deadline for GM Danny Briere. Who wants to be part of it moving forward? It’s fair to ask some serious questions about the group, including Joel Farabee, Morgan Frost, Bobby Brink and others.”
Essentially, Seravalli is arguing that anyone who isn’t willing to buy into the idea of being a Flyer can kick rocks. Everyone else is welcome. And, for players on another team who aren’t happy and think that the Flyers are the kind of team for them, there’s time to have that conversation.
Who Might Not Fit That Mould For the Flyers?
Seravalli didn’t name names. As such, the test will be to see who is happy as a Flyer and who might be looking for a fresh start.
Names like Rasmus Ristolainen have come up as players who could be on the move. That’s mostly because of his contract status and improved play that could make him attractive to contenders. Scott Laughton‘s name is also out there, simply because he’ll be popular at the deadline. But, do either one of these players want to be anything other than Flyers? Time will tel.
As for players who aren’t with the Flyers but might fit the mold. A player like Taylor Hall is looking for a fit. He commented this week that he thinks his time in Chicago is done. He’ll be on what could be his eighth team if he’s traded somewhere and signs with another team this summer. He might want some security and to get into a situation where both sides appreciate loyalty.
