Flyers

Chuck Fletcher Says Kevin Hayes has been “Open-Minded” in Preliminary Talks

By Kevin Kinkead

Published: Jun 10th, 2019 · 12:59 PM EDT

---

Let’s get it back to the Flyers.

Today GM Chuck Fletcher and assistant GM Brent Flahr discussed a variety of topics with the media, including the status of talks with free agent Kevin Hayes, whose rights were acquired by the Flyers last week in exchange for a 5th round pick.

Here’s what Fletcher had to say about Hayes, when asked where things currently stand:

“Nothing to announce at this point. We’ve had some good, I guess you’d call them preliminary, conversations with Kevin and his representation and this week I expect to follow up with Kevin and his camp and we’ll see where it goes. I don’t know how to characterize it other than we’ve had good conversations and we’re hopeful we can find a way to make something work.”

Follow-up question:

Does Fletcher have a “vibe” on Hayes’ current mindset? After the jump:

“I don’t have a vibe, other than he’s certainly open-minded. You have to remember he’s also two weeks away from getting to July 1st (and free agency). That’s a nice status to attain in this league, so certainly he’s earned that right and we’re respectful of that, but I think we have a lot to offer here in Philly so we’ll continue to speak to him. He’s open-minded to conversations and that’s what his camp has said to us and obviously we have a strong interest in him.”

Fletcher says Hayes has not yet visited Philadelphia, though I’d assume that will happen sometimes this week. The GM also said that he wanted to “get ahead” on the team’s pursuit of the 27-year-old center, hence the trade.

Full audio of the presser here:

 

#Flyers GM Chuck Fletcher and Assistant GM Brent Flahr address the media to discuss the offseason and upcoming #NHLDraft. https://t.co/PRdDbKEDR0

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) June 10, 2019