According to the latest NHL trade rumors, the Philadelphia Flyers are likely going to be sellers this year at the NHL trade deadline. Here’s a look at three players they should be looking to move.
The Philadelphia Flyers came into this season thinking they could contend for the Stanley Cup. And rightfully so after signing James van Riemsdyk following their second postseason appearance in three seasons. However, things got ugly quickly, as general manager Ron Hextall got fired in November and head coach Dave Hakstol got fired in December. The latest NHL trade rumors have them being active sellers at the trade deadline.
It was merely a formality, but new general manager Chuck Fletcher spoke before practice and confirmed it.
Chuck Fletcher basically said everyone is available in a trade except Claude Giroux. I have a feeling Carter Hart is untouchable, too. #Flyers
— Sam Carchidi (@BroadStBull) January 28, 2019
The Flyers haven’t won the Stanley Cup since the 1970s and, despite having made the playoffs two of the past three seasons, have still been underachievers. A big move shouldn’t be ruled out, but those kinds of moves rarely happen. Also, most of the Flyers best players are either young or have huge deals which would negatively affect their trade value.
That said, let’s take a look at which three players the Flyers should be hoping to get something for at the trade deadline.
3. Radko Gudas
Defenseman Radko Gudas has a year left on his contract after this one. Quietly, he’s proven to be a pretty darn solid defenseman. In 46 games this year, Gudas has 13 points. However, this doesn’t do him justice, as his impact is typically not seen on the scoresheet.
Gudas has some of the best possession numbers on the Flyers. He also has a mean streak, which is something a lot of general managers covet this time of the year. To top it all off, Gudas is right-handed and can kill penalties.
Gudas is a good player, but trading him makes sense. The Flyers have a tad bit of a logjam on their blueline. Once Samuel Morin comes by (probably by the end of February), that logjam will be even larger. The Flyers could just hold onto Gudas and wait until the offseason to trade him. But, for the right price, he could be heading out of Philly.
Potential fits: Both the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Islanders could use someone like Gudas. He’s a right-handed defenseman with an actual pulse, so expect both teams to kick the tires on him if he becomes available.