Grading the Flyers' Trade of Sean Walker

Danny Briere finally showed some of his cards, and the Flyers will benefit in many ways because of it.

The Philadelphia Flyers traded Sean Walker to the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday to mark their first big trade since January. 

GM Danny Briere and the Philadelphia Flyers receive a solid A- for their Sean Walker trade.

The biggest benefit of this trade is how Briere—somehow, some way—managed to get a 2025 first round draft pick in exchange for Walker and a fifth round pick. There was plenty of doubt regarding whether or not a team would be willing to give the Flyers a first round pick for Walker, but Briere once again proved himself able to pull off the hard deals. 

The Flyers also received center Ryan Johansen, who was immediately placed on waivers.

Philadelphia acquired Sean Walker from the Los Angeles Kings last season in a three-way trade also involving the Columbus Blue Jackets. 

The 29-year-old proved himself to be a solid blueliner, and has impressed while being paired up with Nick Seeler during the 23-24 season. Head coach John Tortorella called Seeler and Walker the Flyers' "most consistent [defensive] pairing," and praised the experience and leadership both players brought to the team. 

While losing Walker will be felt in defense, it provides an opportunity for the younger defenders step up and really take on an important role on the blue line. The front office has emphasized how important it is for the team to build around the younger players and offer them real opportunities to be leaders. It may not be the smoothest transition, but it will be a chance to see what the young guys are made of. 

Overall, this was a trade that wasn't all that surprising to fans, but one that was needed. Amidst palpable fear that the Flyers wouldn't be making any moves by the deadline, Briere subverted those expectations got what is probably the best deal he could've for Walker.

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