Relationship between Kevin Hayes and John Tortorella is reportedly 'fractured'

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Cooper Godin
June 17, 2023 (12:25)

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The Philadelphia Flyers are continuing to find ways to get younger and one option to do so is trying to trade or buyout Kevin Hayes.

There has been interest in Hayes dating back to the trade deadline in March, with a reported deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets close at the time, but nothing materialized.

During a Q&A on 'Daily Faceoff Live', Frank Seravalli revealed that the relationship between Kevin Hayes and head coach John Tortorella is reportedly 'fractured'.

"I don't think the Flyers would buy him out, I don't think it makes any sense given the term remaining. Here's what I'll tell you, the relationship is fractured between Kevin Hayes and John Tortorella and everyone knows it, they've got to get him out of there. They're going and willing to reduce his salary cap hit by retaining some money. Will someone step up with an offer that entices Danny Briere, who by the way talking to other GMs, seems really antsy to make some trades." Seravalli said.

Hayes, 31, has three-years remaining on his contract with a cap hit of $7,142,857 and a modified no-trade clause that includes a 12-team no-trade list.

The Dorchester, Massachusetts native is coming off the best season of his NHL career so far. In 81 games, Hayes had 54 points (18 goals, 36 assists), 23 penalty minutes and was a minus-22. If the Flyers are willing to eat a big portion of his salary, whether that's 30% or 50%, there will certainly be plenty of suitors for the 6'5" centerman.