Monday night, the Flyers announced on their website that they had acquired Kevin Hayes for a 5th round pick in this year’s NHL Entry Draft. Chuck Fletcher, the team’s Executive Vice President & General Manager made the announcement.
What this move does is give the Flyers exclusive negotiating rights with the 27-year-old center. Hayes was often spoken of as a target for the Flyers this offseason, and talks strengthened when Alain Vigneault was named Head Coach, given his tenure with the New York Rangers while Kevin Hayes played there as well.
Hayes broke into the NHL with the New York Rangers, under Vigneault, back in 2014. He quickly became a mainstay in the lineup, putting up 45 points in his first year, 36 the following, and 49 during the 2016-17 season.
Many speculated Hayes to be a target of the Flyers this offseason, and this move makes it easier to negotiate a contract between the two parties. Standing at 6 foot 5 inches, Hayes would add some size to an already decently sized middle for the Flyers.
Hayes brings a good mix of physicality and skill to the Flyers, amassing 229 points in 381 career NHL games. Seemingly, the plan is for Fletcher and Co. to lock Hayes up to a contract before July 1st, when he would enter into unrestricted free agency.
Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports
