NHL Rumors: Columbus Blue Jackets inquired about Kevin Hayes on deadline day

Kevin Hayes was one of the most talked about players during the trade season and was heavily linked to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

There were several reports that the Philadelphia Flyers held talks with the Blue Jackets for a possible trade.

Both have very different goals this season and a deal made sense. Despite a move suiting both teams, the trade deadline passed on Friday and Hayes remains a Flyer.

The situation was discussed during an episode of the "32 Thoughts" podcast with Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman. Friedman summed up the mood around Philadelphia:

"Flyers were disappointed about and it was reflecyed in their fans anger. The players they wanted to trade, there was no market for them."

Why the Philadelphia Flyers were looking to trade Kevin Hayes

The main reason the Flyers were looking to trade Kevin Hayes was his salary. A three-year contract with a salary cap of over 7.1 million dollars is a lot, and the Flyers are struggling to handle it.

Philadelphia were under a lot of stress, and it is evident that they tried to make the deal happen. Unfortunately, the lack of buyers made trading difficult for them, as they could not get the pieces or capital they wanted in return.

With the Flyers near the bottom of the Metropolitan Division (second to last with 52 points), rebuilding for next season seemed like a logical move.

Looking forward, they still have a shot this season but need to string together a series of wins. They are scheduled to play the Tampa Bay Lightning on March 7, 2023, and a win is integral to their chances.

Why the Columbus Blue Jackets wanted to sign Kevin Hayes

Interestingly, the Blue Jackets are the only team below the Flyers in the division.

Colombus have had a poor season sand have accrued only 46 points. They have scored 157 goals in 63 games this season, which is way below expectations.

Kevin Hayes could have helped them improve immediately and also in the future. He is an experienced player and with his goal contributions, he could be a great asset to any team.

After failing to land Hayes, the Blue Jackets will have to make do with what they have and given the way things are going, look to next season.