ESPN: Philadelphia Flyers Get a “C” Grade for Tony DeAngelo Trade

The Flyers added controversial defenseman Tony DeAngelo and 7th-round pick in 2022 in a trade with the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a fourth round pick in the 2022 Draft (used on Simon Forsmark), a third in 2023 and a second in 2024.

The controversial part is in reference to DeAngelo's past, which led him to be bought out in New York after an altercation with then Rangers goalie Alexandar Georgiev after a game.

The Flyers are hoping they have finally found that defenseman who can run the power play, after he had 10 goals and 51 points last season in 64 games for Carolina.

Get our free mobile app

"It's a dream come true for me," DeAngelo said. "I was born in Jersey, but really my entire family besides myself comes from Philly. That's where we lived. Been a Flyers fan since the day I can remember."

While DeAngelo and his family are Flyers fans, people who cover the NHL weren't big of fans of the trade, including ESPN NHL senior NHL writer Greg Wyshynski, who graded the trade at ESPN.com as a C for the Flyers.

Let's start with the obvious question: What compelled the Flyers to trade three draft assets to the Hurricanes for a restricted free agent that the Hurricanes would have theoretically walked away from this offseason? One assumes it's because they weren't the only team in the market for Tony DeAngelo, a right-handed shot, point-producing defenseman.

Wyshynski did point out come of the positive things that DeAngelo can bring to the ice for a Flyers team that has struggled to find a right-handed point producing defenseman.

There are some things to like here. DeAngelo can quarterback a power play. From a logistical standpoint, the Flyers had a need on the right side with Ryan Ellis expected to start the season on long-term injured reserve. While DeAngelo is expected to make $5 million against the salary cap, his term is only two years. Frankly, that term saves the grade from being lower.

As for Carolina's return, Wyshynski gave them an A for landing three draft picks from the Flyers in the deal.