Will the Philadelphia Flyers trade for Dylan Larkin? Plus potential first round picks the Flyers might consider!
The Philadelphia Flyers are unlikely to pursue Dylan Larkin in a trade, despite his recent request to be moved from Detroit, according to hosts Rachel Donner and Russ Cohen. They argue that while Larkin’s desire for a change stems from frustration with the Red Wings’ lack of playoff contention and organizational stagnation, the Flyers aren’t a top-tier destination for him—especially given their status as a first-time playoff team with no clear path to immediate contention. The hosts believe the Flyers should avoid big, high-risk moves this offseason, especially trading away top prospects like Martone for a player in the middle of his prime. Instead, they advocate for patience, letting current prospects develop and using the upcoming draft as a strategic opportunity. The focus then shifts to the draft, where two defensemen—Xavier Villanueva and Tommy Blyle—are highlighted. Villanueva, though physically undersized, shows elite scoring consistency and power-play prowess, while Blyle is rising due to his polished skating and defensive awareness. The episode concludes with a deep dive into Swedish center Alexander Command, a 6'1" playmaker with elite faceoff skills, strong mental makeup, and high upside, who could be a perfect fit for the Flyers’ future lineup and a strong contender at pick 21.
Dylan Larkin is unlikely to be traded to the Flyers due to lack of clear fit and the team’s non-contender status.
The Flyers should avoid trading top prospects like Martone for a high-priced, mid-career center this year.
Xavier Villanueva’s consistent scoring and power-play ability make him a high-upside defenseman worth considering at 21.
Tommy Blyle is rising rapidly due to elite skating, defensive awareness, and ability to handle physical play.
Alexander Command is a 6'1" Swedish center with elite faceoff skills, strong mental makeup, and potential to be a second-line center.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Dylan Larkin Trade Rumors: Why the Flyers Won’t Be a Top Target
“I don't think the Flyers are going to be a part of that conversation. I mean, surprise me, Danny, I guess. But I don't think it's going to be part of the future.”
Why the Flyers Should Avoid a Big Trade This Year
The hosts argue that the Flyers are not in a position to make a blockbuster trade for a top center like Larkin. They emphasize the importance of developing current prospects and avoiding overpaying for a player in the middle of his prime.
The Draft Strategy: Why 21 Is a Sweet Spot for the Flyers
The hosts discuss the Flyers’ draft position and why picking at 21 offers flexibility. They stress the value of patience and letting prospects grow rather than making a high-stakes trade.
Xavier Villanueva: The Undersized Scoring Machine
“I don't know if he'll be a star. I know he'll be a star on the power play. That's not even a question. Like, that's easy to figure out.”
Tommy Blyle: Rising Star with Elite Skating and Defense
Blyle is described as a polished skater with strong defensive instincts and the ability to handle physical play. His rise is attributed to his work ethic and consistency at the combine.
“But I just don't think the Flyers are going to be a part of that conversation. I mean, surprise me, Danny, I guess. But I don't think it's going to be part of the future.”
“I don't know if he'll be a star. I know he'll be a star on the power play. That's not even a question. Like, that's easy to figure out.”
“I mean, I just think that the Flyers will have some really good options at center available to them if that's the direction that they decide to go. And this kid could be one of them.”
Hosts
philladelphia flyers
other
dylan larkin
person
detroit red wings
other
alexander command
person
xavier villanueva
person
tommy blyle
person
martone
person
steve heiserman
person
dan bylsma
person
caleb malhotra
person
Russ’s Final Draft Rankings & The Philadelphia Flyers options in the NHL Draft First Round
33m • 6/10/2026
The Larkin Pursuit
58m • 6/8/2026
Dreger on Larkin’s trade request, Toronto’s coaching search and Cassidy’s situation
17m • 6/4/2026
OverDrive - June 5, 2026 - Hour 1 - Keegan Matheson
46m • 6/5/2026
The Stanley Cup Final Is Off To An ELECTRIC Start | The Hockey Show
1h 0m • 6/5/2026
The Philadelphia Flyers Quest for a Top Defenseman & How to Increase Scoring
32m • 6/1/2026
The Philadelphia Flyers COULD make a big move this offseason but SHOULD they?
32m • 6/3/2026
Will the Philadelphia Flyers Dan Vladar inspire them to look to Czechia for a goalie?
30m • 6/11/2026
Are the Philadelphia Flyers considering Darnell Nurse? Plus, a forward free agent that COULD be a good fit!
29m • 6/12/2026
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime

