The Philadelphia Flyers are approaching the trade deadline in a gray area, not quite rebuilding, but not clearly positioned to (really) contend either. That uncertainty has naturally sparked speculation about what GM Danny Briere might do over the next few weeks. One name that’s surfaced in conversation is winger Owen Tippett.

Tippett isn’t a pending free agent or short-term asset. He’s signed long-term at a reasonable cap hit and remains an important part of the Flyers’ offensive core. That makes the idea of moving him complicated — and unlikely — but not impossible.

On a recent episode of The Chris Johnston Show, insider Chris Johnston addressed the chatter. His takeaway? Philadelphia hasn’t fully committed to a clear deadline direction. The Flyers aren’t in a position where they feel pressured to move players, but they also haven’t completely ruled out selling pieces depending on how things unfold.

“I don’t know yet which way Philadelphia is going to go. And I don’t think they know which way they’re going to go at this deadline. I’m not suggesting that they’re going to be a big buyer, but to what degree are they going to sell? What do they consider? I’d be surprised if we’re talking about Tippett being moved at the deadline, but I also can’t rule it out entirely because, you know. Clearly part of the reaction to everything that’s gone on is that the expectations have gone up and they have to find a way to take steps forward as an organization. And sometimes to do that, you have to consider moving out players who have been pretty productive for you, too.”

In short, a Tippett trade would come as a surprise, but it can’t be completely dismissed. Much will depend on how the standings shake out and how Briere views the team’s timeline. For now, it sounds like the Flyers are still weighing their options and keeping the door at least slightly open to different possibilities.