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Will a Deal Finally Happen? Columbus Blue Jackets and Philadelphia Flyers Reconnect on Trade Talks

Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X April 29, 2023
3 1 minute read

The City of Brotherly Love will experience a lot of change this summer as General Manager Daniel Briere attempts to make his mark on the Flyers team.

Veteran forward Kevin Hayes is a name to watch. Chuck Fletcher apparently worked the phones up until the trade deadline and his dismissal to help arrange a move for Hayes, and the Columbus Blue Jackets were one team he reportedly had in-depth conversations with. Those discussions ultimately came to nothing, and soon after the deadline, the Flyers relieved Fletcher of his duties.

Anthony Di Marco of The Fourth Period reports that the Flyers are prepared to absorb $2 million of Kevin Hayes’ $7 million AAV salary in order to reopen trade negotiations with the Blue Jackets.

“Speaking to someone close to the situation on Monday, the Flyers feel that making Hayes a $5 million player is fair value for what he brings on the ice. I don’t get the sense that is nonnegotiable on their part, the person I spoke to seemed pretty firm on their belief of what they feel should be retained of Hayes’ $7.14 million AAV over the next three seasons. The same person also told me that the Flyers will revisit trade discussions with Columbus between now and the NHL Draft centered around Hayes.” Di Marco said.

Hayes, 30, was one of a few bright spots on the Flyers’ roster this season as he set a new career-high in points with 54 and assists with 36. The Dorchester (Massachusetts) native is under contract until after the 2025-26 season and it will be interesting to see if the Flyers are willing to eat $6 million of his salary over the next three seasons in order to move him and capitalize on what value he currently has on the market.

Igor Burdetskiy

Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine
I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!
Igor Burdetskiy
Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X April 29, 2023
3 1 minute read
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