There were several scouts in Philly last night to take in the game between the Flyers and Hawks, and the most well represented were the Winnipeg Jets, who had their GM and two top scouts in the building. Often times I get to talk to scouts and the reality is they are just taking in the game because they take in games every night and if they are nearby they will attend.
And in regards to probably five of the nine teams in Philly last night I would say that was the case. But not Winnipeg.
Sources tell me they were scouting "three to five players on the Flyers squad" including Wayne Simmonds, Brayden Schenn, and Sam Gagner. But before we assume this all about Dustin Byfuglien, with whom the Flyers have always had interest, I am told in this case it was not about Byfuglien. At least not at this point.
"The Buff deal could happen at some point this season or the Draft," but I am hearing the teams are talking about a different, albeit pretty big, deal.
The Flyers are definitely interested in moving some salary and would like to get help in their own end as well as secondary scoring...
Moving Wayne Simmonds is a potentially scary move but his value is high. Brayden Schenn has looked really good this year so far and could be moved as well.
I am told the Flyers may be willing to move some picks as well to get salary out.
RJ Umberger is still injured and it sounds like it could be serious. Sam Gagner, aka Blackhawks killer, looked great in his place for the second straight game. If RJ goes on long-term IR then the Flyers could get some help, but if they can move RJ or another costly player Hextall will have all sorts of options.
The fact that so many scouts were in Philly means the word has gotten out.
More as I hear it.
We will discuss all this and more today at 1pm on the Buzzcast