A forward is attracting a lot of interest from NHL GMs and could be traded in the next few hours
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Cimon Asselin
Mar 4, 2026 (11:42)
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Photo credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Nicolas Deslauriers rarely cracks the lineup for John Tortorella these days. That could change quickly as the trade deadline approaches.
The rugged winger is a pending free agent for the Philadelphia Flyers. He brings a specific, old-school element to the ice.
He has spent too much time sitting out as a healthy scratch lately. He has only suited up for 23 games this season, mostly riding the bench.
But the Stanley Cup playoffs demand a completely different style of hockey.
General managers obsess over size, toughness, and intimidation when the postseason gets close. They want players who make opponents genuinely nervous crossing the blue line.
Deslauriers is widely recognized as one of the toughest guys in the Show. He is a pure fourth-line enforcer who answers the bell every single time.
Adding a player with his physical edge drastically improves any roster's overall toughness. It gives star players more room to operate.
Doing Right by a Veteran
Flyers management knows they are not getting a premium asset in return. You do not demand a top prospect for a depth winger.
General Manager Daniel Briere would likely make this deal as a sheer courtesy. It clears a roster spot while rewarding a loyal player.
Deslauriers has battled hard over his 13-year NHL career. He has earned the deep respect of every locker room he walks into.
Yet, he has only made a single postseason appearance. That is a brutal reality for a guy who sacrifices his body every shift.
Surviving the Metro Division to make a deep run with the Flyers this season is highly unlikely.
Keeping him around to be the 13th or 14th forward down the stretch makes zero sense.
Contenders are always hunting for cheap muscle to survive a grueling seven-game series. A heavy hitter changes the tone instantly.
Moving him out for a late draft pick is a smart business decision. Deslauriers deserves one final shot at hoisting the Cup.
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