Three Potential Trade Targets for Flyers This Offseason

Although the Philadelphia Flyers may have missed their opportunity to secure Dylan Larkin, the offseason still holds promise for finding a top-six center. Larkin, who will turn 30 next month, boasts undeniable talent and leadership, but the Flyers could explore other options that offer better long-term fits.

As the Flyers look to develop their young talent, including Matvei Michkov and Porter Martone, it’s crucial for these players to reach their full potential before the team invests in a veteran star. The development of Michkov and Martone represents the core of Philadelphia’s future, making it essential to focus on their growth.

One intriguing name that has surfaced in trade discussions is Matty Beniers of the Seattle Kraken. Despite being 331 games into his NHL career, Beniers has yet to surpass 30 goals or 60 points in a season. At just 23 years old, he was the second overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft and made an impressive debut with 57 points in his rookie season, which earned him a lucrative seven-year, $50 million contract.

As the Kraken continue to navigate their identity as an expansion team, Beniers might benefit from a change of scenery. With a more dynamic roster that includes Michkov, Martone, Travis Konecny, Owen Tippett, and Trevor Zegras, the Flyers could provide Beniers with the support he needs to elevate his game. While he may not reach the heights of a player like Nico Hischier, Beniers could be a valuable asset for a Flyers team focused on building for the future.

Another name to consider is Mason McTavish, who was selected immediately after Beniers in the 2021 draft by the Anaheim Ducks. McTavish has shown flashes of brilliance, including a solid 22-goal, 52-point season last year, but he has also struggled with coaching changes and a lack of opportunity. Despite finishing with a respectable 41 points in 75 games and contributing six points in 10 playoff games, his potential has yet to be fully realized.

The Flyers’ interest in McTavish signals a willingness to bet on his potential, especially with Rick Tocchet at the helm, who has a knack for developing young talent. With five years remaining on his contract at a $7 million cap hit, McTavish’s trade value may be at a low point, making it an opportune time for the Flyers to explore a deal.

Lastly, Barrett Hayton, a forward for the Utah Mammoth, presents another option after a difficult statistical season. The 26-year-old is a pending RFA and was the fifth overall pick in the 2018 draft. Despite his recent struggles, Hayton has the talent to rebound, having scored 20 goals and 46 points just a year ago. With Tocchet’s familiarity from their time in Arizona, Hayton could thrive in a new environment that offers more skilled teammates.

As the Flyers look to enhance their roster, investing in a player like Hayton could pay off. A change in scenery might be just what he needs to rediscover his scoring touch, particularly with a coach known for maximizing player potential. With the opportunity to buy low on a former top-five draft pick, the Flyers have the chance to make strategic moves that could reshape their roster for the better.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.