Although it seemed yesterday that Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Travis Sanheim was headed to St. Louis as part of one version of the blockbuster Kevin Hayes trade that is still yet to be fully ironed out, new details have emerged on Hayes’ status. Defenseman Torey Krug is reportedly not waiving his no-trade clause to be part of the Hayes deal, likely eliminating the possibility of Sanheim getting included in the trade. That doesn’t mean Sanheim won’t be on the move this summer, though.
The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta reports that “a few teams spoke with Philly about Sanheim, including the Toronto Maple Leafs.” While Sanheim’s $6.25MM cap hit expiring in the early 2030’s might seem difficult for Toronto to fit on their books, Sanheim would certainly be an intriguing addition to the left side of their defense. Worth noting is a conflicting report from Crossing Broad’s Anthony SanFilippo, who tweets that Toronto has not yet spoken to the Flyers about a possible Sanheim deal.
Some other notes from the NHL’s Eastern Conference:
- Montreal Canadiens prospect Vinzenz Rohrer has signed a two-year deal with the ZSC Lions of Switzerland’s National League, per a team announcement. Rohrer, 18, was a third-round pick of the Canadiens at the 2022 draft and has played the last two seasons with the Ottawa 67’s of the OHL, scoring 97 points in 118 games and earning Second-Team All-Rookie honors in the OHL in 2021-22. The Austrian forward captained ZSC’s U17 side at the junior level and with this contract, he’ll now get the chance to test himself at the pro level against men.
- The Columbus Blue Jackets’ choice at the number-three pick is one of the more intriguing storylines heading into the draft three days from now, and The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline has injected some more mystery into the lead-up to draft night. Writing what he called “informed, but highly speculative insights” Portzline said “The Blue Jackets are huge Will Smith fans,” and that “if we had to pick one today, some 72 hours before the draft, we’d lean toward Smith.” (subscription link) Seeing as Portzline stressed the speculative nature of those insights his piece shouldn’t be seen as a firm indication of Columbus’ preferences, but rather more of an indication that their choice at number three between Smith, Leo Carlsson, and potentially Adam Fantilli isn’t as clear-cut as some might lead one to believe.
I could see a scenario where Fantilli falls to #5
Still feel like The Ducks are taking Fantilli
For some reason I see them taking Leo at #2. If the Jackets indeed take Smith at #3 then SJ would likely take Fantili but SJ is several years from contention. They’re perfect for Michov who is more talented than the 3 Centers after Bedard.
definitely not happening
I dont think it will either but the scenario is possible
Fantilli will certainly be the 2nd pick!
I’d be shocked if he didn’t go #2.
If the Jackets are such big Will Smith fans, why were they so jiggy with leaving the wild wild West?
I see what you did there. ;)
Warning to those considering buying THN’s Draft Preview edition. Just like last year’s edition, you’ll need a magnifying glass to read the print. Quality control is lacking at THN.
Sanheim has a full NTC as of 7/1. If he doesn’t move now he’s not going anywhere for at least 4 years
No it just makes it harder to move him, most players will move to avoid rebuilds, it just puts him in the driver’s seat.