Flyers accept

But Colorado doesn't.

Unfortunately for Hayes and the Flyers, they will both be stuck involved in a trade for assets less than the player's actual value to his team, just due to the high cap hit. Some degree of retention amounting to $2-2.5m could be required to make it a fair trade scenario.

If the $2.5M retention is the difference between getting it done or not, the Flyers DEFINITELY will accept the retention.

Hayes getting a 1st (despite retention)... well stranger things have happened... with the amount of centers available, let's see if it comes to that.

Avs would need more cap retained if they shoot for Hayes. They'd have to surround him with better wings than some other 2C options and that takes cap

COL might need to retain more but I think this deal works for both teams. Hayes was basically the No. 1 center last year for PHI. He did drop off towards the end but I think that's because PHI used him too much early in the season. I think Hayes would play with Nichushkin and Rodrigues if he goes to COL and is the best option to fill the 2C position.

Colorado is desperate for a 2C and doesn't need their 1st round pick this year.