The transaction market is heating up, and this time, Daniel Brière, general manager of the Philadelphia Flyers, is back to try to obtain Arber Xhekaj.
This time, Brière would offer Morgan Frost to CH.
But Hughes’ answer is always the same: Arber Xhekaj is not available. However, one wonders if Hughes could offer something other than Xhekaj to get the fiery-handed 25-year-old center who needs a fresh start.
Morgan Frost, an undeniable offensive talent, is having a difficult season under John Tortorella. Despite flashes of genius in his best campaigns, with seasons of 46 and 41 points, Frost seems caught in a spiral of doubt and inconsistency.
This year, he has been scratched from the lineup three times in the last four games, a big blow for the 25-year-old.
“Frosty is probably the most talented center we have, but he has to take responsibility to establish himself when he returns to the lineup”Tortorella said.
Despite his potential, Frost appears to be nearing a breaking point with the Flyers. Brière, aware of the need for a change of scenery for his player, could take the opportunity to kill two birds with one stone: free Frost and get his hands on Xhekaj.
But Hughes still remains frozen.
For his part, Arber Xhekaj continues to increase his value. With a formidable physical game and notable progression in his defensive responsibilities, he has become a centerpiece of the Canadian brigade, but also a prized target for several teams.
According to Elliotte Friedman, the Flyers have been tracking Xhekaj since the summer, even sending scouts several times. Briere knows a defenseman like Xhekaj would be an ideal addition for the Flyers, who are looking to solidify their rugged identity.
The potential Frost-Xhekaj exchange fuels discussions, but it also poses strategic dilemmas. Frost would offer the Canadian a talented player who could occupy an offensive role as a center or winger, in the event of the departure of Jake Evans or Christian Dvorak.
Dvorak is guaranteed to leave. Evans wants 4 million per year and it will be interesting to see what Kent Hughes thinks.
Replace Evans with Frost? Or add Frost and keep Evans to add depth at center?
One thing is certain: Xhekaj’s physical style, unique in the NHL, is difficult to replace, especially for a team that lacks defensive robustness like the Montreal Canadiens.
This is why Hughes continues to reject offers.
Brière, however, seems determined. According to close sources, he would be willing to offer Frost and perhaps even a draft pick to convince Kent Hughes.
Philadelphia sees in Xhekaj a perfect complement to build an intimidating and effective defense specific to the “Broad Street Bullies” identity so dear to the Flyers.
For Hughes, the decision is not easy. The young defender is gaining consistency and confidence under Martin St-Louis, but talents like Frost aren’t found everywhere.
Admire this splendid goal to convince yourself.
With the Flyers desperate for offensive production, the opportunity to land a player like Frost could prove enticing.
But Hughes cannot ignore that Xhekaj has become a fan favorite and an important piece of the Canadian’s defensive future.
The idea of seeing him shine in another jersey, while watching Frost stagnate in Montreal, is a scenario he must avoid at all costs.
For the Flyers, trading Frost would be a calculated, but risky, gamble. His talent is undeniable, but his lack of consistency could make him dispensable in a team that is still looking for an identity.
Note that he pockets $2.1 million this season and becomes a restricted free agent next summer.
For the Canadian, accepting an offer that included Frost in exchange for Xhekaj could be interpreted as an attempt to fill an offensive void in the short term, but it would come at the cost of losing one of the most promising and intimidating young defenders on the circuit.
Arber Xhekaj’s name is on everyone’s lips, and Daniel Brière plays his cards with the precision of a veteran. Morgan Frost represents intriguing bait, but the question remains whether Kent Hughes is willing to take such a risk.
For now, the answer is no. Should Jayden Struble be offered to the Flyers?
Maybe we’re wrong. But we see in Frost an underestimated offensive talent who could explode under the orders of Martin St-Louis.
Kent Hughes must not let this chance pass. He simply has to find another player than Arber Xhekaj to offer to Brière.
