Recent speculation surrounding a potential trade involving Philadelphia Flyers' winger Owen Tippett has been met with a firm rebuttal from a well-placed NHL insider, casting doubt on the likelihood of such a move. The 26-year-old Tippett, currently in the second year of an eight-year, $49.6 million contract, has been the subject of trade rumors, with some suggesting the Flyers might be open to offers.
However, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has clarified the Flyers' stance, stating that the team is not actively looking to trade Tippett. Friedman addressed the rumors on a recent podcast, suggesting that while other teams may have inquired about Tippett, the Flyers are not shopping him. "Do I think the Flyers are looking to trade Owen Tippett? No,” Friedman stated. "Do I think that somebody may have asked about Owen Tippett?".
The Flyers' apparent reluctance to trade Tippett stems from several factors. First, his contract, with a $6.2 million annual cap hit, could become a bargain in the coming years as the salary cap rises. Second, Tippett has emerged as a key offensive player for the Flyers, leading the team in goals with five in the early part of the season. His consistent offensive contributions make him a valuable asset.
Tippett's name may have surfaced in trade discussions as the Flyers explore options to bolster their defense, an area that head coach Rick Tocchet expressed concerns about during the preseason. It is possible that Tippett's name was mentioned as a potential return piece in a trade for a defenseman.
Despite the insider's comments, some reports suggest that other teams are monitoring Tippett's situation in Philadelphia. Kyle Morton of Daily Faceoff noted that the chances of Tippett being traded before American Thanksgiving are increasing, as several NHL teams have expressed interest. Morton also pointed out that Tippett's contract is "friendly" for bottom-line teams and that he has a proven track record of scoring goals.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Tippett's contract includes a modified no-trade clause that goes into effect next July. If the Flyers were to consider trading him, doing so before the no-trade clause kicks in would give them more flexibility.
Ultimately, whether the Flyers trade Tippett remains to be seen. On one hand, he is a valuable offensive player with a manageable contract who is not actively being shopped. On the other hand, the Flyers have a logjam of talent on the wing, and Tippett's name has surfaced in trade rumors, suggesting that the possibility of a deal exists.
For now, Tippett remains a Philadelphia Flyer, and the team is not actively trying to trade him. However, as the season progresses and the trade deadline approaches, his situation will be worth monitoring.
