Failed Cutter Gauthier trade reported prior to Monday’s blockbuster!

While fans were stunned that the Flyers traded forward Cutter Gauthier to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defenseman Jamie Drysdale and a second-round selection in the 2025 NHL draft on Monday, rumours emerged that Philadelphia had previously attempted to move him.

Flyers beat writer Charlie O’Connor has revealed that he heard chatter that the team was shopping Gauthier at the 2023 NHL Draft this past summer and that he could have ended up with the Montreal Canadiens.

“I heard a rumor they quietly shopped Gauthier back at the draft, and it was one of the things I was chasing today.

“Can now confirm yes, Gauthier was shopped. They tried to swap him for the No. 5 pick, presumably to take David Reinbacher and ensure Michkov got to 7 too. MTL passed.”

Can you imagine if this trade had worked out and Montreal had agreed to the transaction! The trade that took place on Monday was a bombshell of a trade, but this reported failed one would have been quite something on the draft floor after the Chicago Blackhawks selected Connor Bedard first overall as expected.

In the long run, the Flyers ended with the prospect they wanted for the 2023 Draft in Michkov’s NHL rights, but had to part ways with Gauthier, who dominated at the World Juniors. However, all things considered, the Flyers ended up with a surprisingly good return for Gauthier as they held little to no leverage but got their hands on a a top four defenseman in Drysdale and a solid draft pick in the transaction.

As for the Canadiens, they were confident that they made the right call in turning down the Gauthier trade offer from Philadelphia and will keep investing in Reinbacher moving forward.

Gauthier on his end, appears to get what he wants in not playing for the Flyers and joining the Ducks in Anaheim.

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