Flyers Demand Significant Return in Potential Trade for Elite Goalie Prospect: Are They Asking Too Much

As the Philadelphia Flyers gear up for training camp, speculation around the potential trade of elite goalie prospect Alexei Kolosov has begun to swirl. According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, teams interested in acquiring Kolosov will need to meet the Flyers’ high demands.

In his latest “32 Thoughts” column, Friedman reports that the Flyers are open to trading Kolosov but have set a steep asking price: a second-round draft pick. However, before any deal is finalized, inquiring teams must ensure that Kolosov, who is currently still in Russia, would be willing to join them.

Kolosov, 22, last played for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms in the AHL during April, participating in two games before returning to Russia without much communication. Since then, the young goalie has skipped both the Flyers’ development camp and rookie camp, adding an air of uncertainty to his situation. His absence has fueled rumors, but the lack of information has left many in the dark about his next move.

Reports suggest that several NHL teams could be potential trade partners for the Flyers, including the Nashville Predators and Calgary Flames. Nashville recently moved on from their own young goalie prospect, Yaroslav Askarov, while Calgary could be in the market for a new netminder following the departure of Jacob Markstrom. Of the two, Calgary appears to be the most likely destination for Kolosov, especially if he’s aiming for immediate playing time in the NHL. Both the Predators and Flames also hold two second-round picks in the 2025 NHL Draft, a draft the Flyers have expressed strong interest in, already holding three second-round picks of their own.

Another team worth keeping an eye on is the Vancouver Canucks. With starter Thatcher Demko struggling with a chronic injury and backup Arturs Silovs also dealing with health issues, Vancouver may be in need of goalie reinforcements. The Canucks have already signed Dylan Ferguson, Kolosov’s backup from Dinamo Minsk, to a professional tryout contract, and they also have Belarusian goalie prospect Nikita Tolopilo in their pipeline. However, language barriers and logistics could complicate Vancouver’s pursuit of Kolosov.

Despite the intrigue surrounding Kolosov’s potential, a trade does not appear imminent. Teams need to first ensure that Kolosov would report to their roster before paying the Flyers’ high price. While the Flyers’ steep demand adds complexity to the situation, the market for promising young goaltenders means that interested teams may ultimately be willing to pay up for Kolosov’s services.

The Philadelphia Flyers are reportedly open to trading elite goalie prospect Alexei Kolosov, but the asking price is steep—a second-round draft pick. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that while several teams, including the Calgary Flames and Nashville Predators, have shown interest, they would need to ensure Kolosov, who is still in Russia, is willing to join them before making a deal. Kolosov’s absence from recent Flyers camps has added uncertainty to his future, but his potential has sparked significant trade discussions. However, no trade is imminent at this time.