NHL Trade Talk
NHL Trade Talk: Seth Jones drawing a lot of interest, Flyers among frontrunners
When someone like Seth Jones is on the trade market, there is bound to be a lot of interest. The Philadelphia Flyers are just one of many teams that have been linked to Jones since his name came into the rumor mill a month ago.
Aaron Portzline of The Athletic reported some updates on the Seth Jones saga late last week.
According to Portzline, the Philadelphia Flyers are among the most likely teams to land jones. He listed the Chicago Blackhawks, Colorado Avalanche, and Los Angeles Kings as other frontrunners for Jones. Columbus Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen also told Portzline that he’s “heard from just about every GM in the league” in regards to Seth Jones.
Flyers Trade Talk: Chuck Fletcher “definitely working at” Seth Jones deal
The 26-year-old defenseman is a former fourth overall pick with a lot of talent. He’s had a few down years, but the talent is still there. And the talent is what Chuck Fletcher and the Flyers want for their blue line. However, that talent is going to come at a cost.
The price for Seth Jones
Chuck Fletcher and the Flyers are going to have to pony up a pretty offer to send to Columbus for Jones. Even then, given the massive interest around the league, it may not be enough. It doesn’t help that the Flyers were in the Blue Jackets’ division for the past several years and could be division foes again in the near future.
With Jones likely costing a pretty penny, the Flyers would be remiss to not feel out the market elsewhere. Dougie Hamilton is the best defenseman available this offseason and will cost them nothing more than a large contract –– which Jones will also demand. As an unrestricted free agent, the Flyers wouldn’t have to worry about giving up Joel Farabee, Travis Konecny, Philippe Myers, Travis Sanheim, Cam York, or other valuable assets for Hamilton.
Gilbert: Flyers need to target Dougie Hamilton over Seth Jones
If the Flyers do trade for Jones, it won’t be without a long-term pact in mind. Elliotte Friedman said on SN590 last week that the Flyers want Seth Jones, but only with term. It makes sense as otherwise, it would be a rental with the risk of Jones testing free agency next summer.
Seth Jones is going to be one of many names to watch over the next few weeks. There may be a bit of a lull until the Expansion Draft on July 21st, but that should open up the floodgates for trades at the NHL Draft on July 23rd.