I guess that Frost's inconsistencies are a problem. Perhaps a change of scenery would do both the Flyers and him some good. I'm not sold that Tortorella's riding of him hasn't set Frost back. There is something there with Frost.
Risto has played solid hockey this season. He's become a good second pairing RHD. No need to give him away. Teams are looking for a player such as he is right now. Salary and term or not, he's a valuable commodity.
Laughton doesn't have it any longer. He's never been the best skater but he's sowed down. His shot and passing have sloughed off. He still has energy but it's not enough to make him worthwhile on the ice here. This club is noticeably quicker than past ones. Laughton's inability to keep up is a problem for him.
Very few trades happen before the week before the trade deadline in March.
Briere is in no hurry.
Right now all four lines are playing well, so I'm sure they'll just watch and see how things develop.
Frost isn't getting traded unless it's a major deal for a young top 6 center, and those kinds of deals are rare.
Very few, but not none. Agree Frost will only be traded for NHL-ready talent (though he won't get it for you straight-up, and the center might be more "top 6 potential" than already top 6. Much like Frost himself). But I don't really care if they repeat last season and make aggressive trades that cost them wins in March. They will probably eventually have to trade one of the back-up goalies too (unless Kolosov just goes quietly to Allentown).
In the meantime it's not surprising that the Flyers are essentially a .500 team (.517). Their OT wins and regulation losses are probably what tip the balance.
Actually, watching the games, Michkov and Tippett have more chemistry than Michkov and Frost.
That's because Michkov needs the puck and Tippett is the "bull in the china shop" who's good at O-zone entries, creating chaos that gives Michkov room to create his magic.
I could see TIppett - Jett - Michkov next season.
What will be interesting to watch is how Foerster - Cates - Brink progress this season.
I think in a year or two, they'll bring in another top 6 center, move Couts to LW with TK at RW.
Farabee will either move down to another line or be part of a trade for a center.
Guys that I could see traded this season…
Laughton as he’s probably not part of the long term at this point and Sanheim is ready for the A. Brink or Foerster: we’re heavy on the right wing and need left wings and could use improvements at center. Frost could use a change of venue.
On D…Risto has been playing solidly, but he’s probably not part of the long term. Maybe someone would want Johnson for depth.
Anyone else on the roster I either wouldn’t make available or don’t see why another team would want them.