The Carolina Hurricanes have acquired winger Nicolas Deslauriers from the Philadelphia Flyers, according to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet. In exchange, the Flyers will receive a conditional seventh-round draft pick in 2027, as reported by Charlie O’Connor of PHLY Sports. To fill the roster vacancy left by Deslauriers, Philadelphia claimed center Luke Glendening off waivers from the New Jersey Devils, according to Friedman.
Deslauriers’ Role and Performance with the Flyers
Now in his 13th NHL season, Deslauriers is departing Philadelphia after four years with the team. Once known for contributing offensively, the 35-year-old has transitioned into a more specialized enforcer role at this point in his career. His offensive numbers are limited this season, tallying only 13 shots on goal across 25 games, with a single assist and a -3 rating.
Throughout the current season, Deslauriers has spent more time out of the lineup than on it, ranking no higher than 13th in the Flyers’ forward depth chart. He has yet to play in more than three consecutive games this year. The Hurricanes plan to use him in a similar limited capacity, primarily as an enforcer and occasional roster option. With Deslauriers approaching free agency, Philadelphia’s decision to trade him offers a chance to recoup a future draft asset.
Flyers Strengthen Center Position with Luke Glendening
Philadelphia appears to be addressing its immediate need for center depth, likely driven by Rodrigo Abols’ right ankle fracture, which has sidelined the player since January. This injury has forced winger Carl Grundström to shift into the center role temporarily. To bolster their lineup, the Flyers acquired Glendening, a veteran known previously for his defensive prowess.
Glendening is in his 13th NHL season and has maintained a spot in the league despite a reduced role. After signing a professional tryout offer with New Jersey last summer, he secured a league-minimum contract and has served primarily as the Devils’ fourth-line center. This season, he has averaged a career-low 9:54 of ice time over 52 games, without scoring a goal but contributing four assists and holding a -11 rating. His faceoff success rate has declined to 51.7%, down from his previous reputation as a top faceoff specialist.
Implications of the Trade for Both Teams
This trade provides the Hurricanes with a depth enforcer option in Nicolas Deslauriers, who can add physicality and fill in when necessary, though his ice time is expected to remain limited. For the Flyers, adding Luke Glendening addresses their short-term center shortage linked to injuries, offering defensive experience and faceoff ability despite diminished offensive production.
The move also reflects Philadelphia’s strategy to manage roster flexibility while recouping assets before Deslauriers becomes a free agent. Carolina gains a veteran presence that could support team toughness as the season progresses. Both teams may continue adjusting their rosters as they navigate injury concerns and performance needs.
Nik Deslauriers to Carolina
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 6, 2026
Hearing the return isn't anything much on Deslauriers, as expected. 7th rounder in 2027, and I believe there are conditions on it.
— Charlie O'Connor (@charlieo_conn) March 6, 2026
PHI claims Glendening
VAN claims Douglas
FLA claims Reinhardt— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 6, 2026
