This trade, reminiscent of the impactful Drouin-Sergachev swap in 2017, unfolded as Gauthier expressed disinterest in signing with the Flyers. Despite no official word from Gauthier or the Flyers, Ducks GM Pat Verbeek praised Gauthier's skill set in a press release, acknowledging the difficulty of parting with Drysdale.
The 21-year-old defenseman, a 6th overall pick in 2020, is considered one of the NHL's top young talents and brings promise to the Flyers with a reasonable $2.3 million cap hit for the next three seasons.
