Philadelphia Flyers could make push for top-five pick in 2025-26

The Philadelphia Flyers have been active this offseason in trying to ice a competitive squad. The hiring of Rick Tocchet was a major step forward in completing the team’s rebuild.

But Tocchet’s presence alone isn’t enough to get the Flyers back into the Eastern Conference playoff picture.

That’s why the club traded for Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks and added other depth pieces like Christian Dvorak.

However, question marks remain. As Marco D’Amico noted in a piece published in RG Media on July 19: "Their (Flyers) forward group lacks depth down the middle, and while the team plays hard, the ceiling is clearly limited."

That assessment means that the Flyers might not be on track to head back to the postseason. If that’s the case, the Flyers could pivot and shoot downward. That could mean selling off assets.

For instance, the club may finally move defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen. Ristolainen has been the subject of trade rumors for a couple of seasons now. So, 2025-26 could be the year Philadelphia finally moves him.

In D’Amico’s estimation, the Flyers could part ways with Owen Tippett and newly signed Christian Dvorak, as these players would be the ones garnering the most attention. Given the haul obtained for Scott Laughton last season, the Flyers could get some more valuable pieces at this year’s trade deadline.

However, it all depends on where the Flyers are come Thanksgiving. If the team is within striking distance of a playoff spot, the selloff may be delayed. Otherwise, the official tanking could commence as soon as late November.

Philadelphia Flyers making savvy moves while keeping eyes on 2026 NHL Draft

D’Amico noted that the Flyers have made savvy moves this offseason. One of the best moves has been the acquisition of Trevor Zegras. Zegras could be the piece the Flyers have been looking for to complement phenom Matvei Michkov.

Also, smart draft picks have positioned the Flyers on track to become a serious contender. Philly picked up Porter Martone in the 2025 NHL Draft with the sixth overall pick. The Flyers also added center Jack Nesbitt with the 12th overall selection, giving the club two fantastic prospects.

But given how deep the 2026 NHL Draft is believed to be, the Flyers would be remiss if they didn’t chase a top-five pick if the club quickly falls out of contention. Getting as far down the standings could be a boon if there’s a real chance to land Gavin McKenna.

While Flyers fans would trade a top-five draft pick for a magical playoff run, it’s worth pointing out that long-term strategy could involve winning the race to the bottom as opposed to trying to chase a playoff berth with a team that’s not quite there yet.