Flyers’ Trade Deadline Dilemma: Could Owen Tippett Be the Key to a Roster Reset?
The Philadelphia Flyers find themselves in a precarious position as the March 6th trade deadline approaches. Not quite contenders, but as well not positioned to secure a top draft pick, the team faces a critical decision: stand pat, or strategically reshape the roster. A key piece in that potential reshaping could be winger Owen Tippett.
The Complicated Value of a Productive Player
Tippett, currently signed through the 2031-32 season with a $6.25 million AAV, isn’t a typical trade deadline rental. He’s a significant contributor to the Flyers’ offense, having scored 18 goals and 17 assists this season. However, NHL insider Chris Johnston suggests the Flyers haven’t fully defined their direction, and that could lead to considering moves that might have seemed unthinkable just weeks ago.
“I don’t recognize yet which way Philadelphia is going to move,” Johnston stated. “I’m not suggesting that they’re going to be a big buyer, but to what degree are they going to sell?”
A Logjam on the Wing and the Need for Defensive Reinforcements
One factor driving the conversation around Tippett is a surplus of wingers within the Flyers organization. The emergence of Denver Barkey, coupled with the anticipated arrival of prospect Porter Martone, creates a potential logjam. Tippett, whereas valuable, might be the ideal candidate to move, potentially netting a defenseman or center – positions of need for Philadelphia.
This isn’t a new discussion among Flyers fans, but recent organizational turbulence, including issues surrounding Matvei Michkov and Rick Tocchet, has raised expectations for change. The Flyers may be compelled to consider trading productive players to accelerate their rebuild.
Tippett’s Recent Performance and Contract Status
Owen Tippett attempts 2.3 shots per game, converting 12.5% of them. He has a goal in 16 of 57 games played this season, with multiple goals in two of those games. He also has a point in 25 of 57 games, with multiple points in eight. His contract, signed in July 2022, runs for several years, making him a valuable asset beyond a simple rental.
Recent games display a mixed bag of results. On March 4, 2025, he recorded 0 points against the Flames. He also had 0 points against the Jets on March 1, 2025, and against the Devils on January 29, 2025.
What Does This Mean for the Flyers’ Future?
The Flyers’ decision regarding Tippett will signal their intentions for the coming years. A willingness to move a productive, signed player suggests a more aggressive approach to roster reconstruction. Retaining him indicates a preference for gradual improvement. The team’s leadership must weigh the immediate return of a trade against the long-term value of a player who can contribute offensively.
FAQ
Q: Is Owen Tippett definitely going to be traded?
A: No, it’s not certain. The Flyers haven’t made a final decision, and Chris Johnston suggests they are still evaluating their options.
Q: What positions are the Flyers looking to address?
A: The Flyers reportedly need to bolster their defense and center positions.
Q: How long is Owen Tippett’s contract?
A: Tippett is signed through the 2031-32 season.
Q: What is Owen Tippett’s AAV?
A: His average annual value is $6.25 million.
Did you know? Owen Tippett signed a two-year contract with the Flyers in 2022.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on insider reports from Chris Johnston and Elliotte Friedman for the latest updates on the Flyers’ trade deadline strategy.
What are your thoughts on the Flyers’ potential moves? Share your opinions in the comments below!
