The Philadelphia Flyers aren't going to let go of their starting goalie without accepting a ton of resources in return.
The Philadelphia Flyers are sitting one point outside of a Wild Card position on American Thanksgiving. Around 76% of teams (since 2008) that are in a playoff position at Thanksgiving remain in the playoffs by the end of the season.
The Flyers are sporting a 10-8-1 record. Their powerplay is ranked 27th and their penalty kill is 12th.
The Metropolitan Division is very tight right now. Six points stand between the Flyers and the top team in the Metro - the New York Rangers.
In spite of this there is a desperate team looking to add a top notch goaltender. Of course the team I am referring to is the Edmonton Oilers.
They are looking for a starting goalie, and considering that he is born in the area, Carter Hart is a name that has come up in rumors many times.
But why on earth would the Flyers trade Hart?
Simply put, the Flyers aren't likely to go deep in the playoffs this year. Without a true backup the entire goaltending hopes would fall on Hart. I believe the organization will be happy if they even make it to the playoffs.
Young Goalie for Young Goalie
If I'm the Flyers GM there is no way I trade Hart unless Stuart Skinner is part of the package coming back. Skinner was a Calder Trophy Finalist last year after saving their season from the terribly inconsistent play of Jack Campbell.
He has the pedigree and the work ethic to be a great goaltender. Unfortunately for Skinner, the Oilers are desperate - which means that if he is traded it will be for less than he's worth.
If the Oilers can add a 1st round pick, 2nd round pick, one or two top prospects and a roster player to go along with Skinner - that's a deal I'd definitely consider.
With the roster player and prospects you can continue to develop your young players and set the organization up for success down the road. Skinner helps you right now, and you acquire picks to keep the prospect shelves stocked.
If Daniel Briere wants to entertain Ken Holland, this is what I'd hold firmly to. Anything less is a loss for the team.
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