Will the Philadelphia Flyers trade for Dylan Larkin? Plus potential first round picks the Flyers might consider!

Locked On Flyers - Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Flyers30mJune 9, 2026
AI-Generated Summary

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.

Key Takeaways
1

Dylan Larkin is unlikely to be traded to the Flyers due to lack of clear fit and the team’s non-contender status.

2

The Flyers should avoid trading top prospects like Martone for a high-priced, mid-career center this year.

3

Xavier Villanueva’s consistent scoring and power-play ability make him a high-upside defenseman worth considering at 21.

4

Tommy Blyle is rising rapidly due to elite skating, defensive awareness, and ability to handle physical play.

5

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

Chapters
1:05
2 min

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.

Highlight
3:27
3 min

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.

6:47
4 min

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.

10:54
6 min

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.

Highlight
17:17
5 min

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.

High-Impact Quotes
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.
Russ Cohen11:42
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.
Russ Cohen19:35
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.
Russ Cohen29:55
Speakers

Hosts

Rachel DonnerRuss Cohen
Topics Discussed
alexander command92%philladelphia flyers draft90%xavier villanueva88%dylan larkin trade85%tommy blyle82%flyers draft strategy80%swedish hockey prospects78%nfl draft buzz35%
People & Brands

philladelphia flyers

other

25xPositive

dylan larkin

person

14xNeutral

detroit red wings

other

10xNeutral

alexander command

person

9xPositive

xavier villanueva

person

8xPositive

tommy blyle

person

7xPositive

martone

person

4xNeutral

steve heiserman

person

4xNeutral

dan bylsma

person

3xNeutral

caleb malhotra

person

2xNeutral

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