Deflecting Palm MTG Card


Deflecting Palm mitigates damage and can yield card advantage by negating high-power threats effectively. Instant speed and low cost combine to make Deflecting Palm a surprise element and a resourceful play. Despite its casting restrictions, the card shines with versatility and fits well into Boros strategies.
Card setsReleased in 4 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost2
RarityRare
TypeInstant

Text of card

The next time a source of your choice would deal damage to you this turn, prevent that damage. If damage is prevented this way, Deflecting Palm deals that much damage to that source's controller.


Cards like Deflecting Palm

Deflecting Palm is a unique reaction spell for any player looking to turn the tide in a game of Magic: The Gathering. It’s often weighed against other redirection spells, such as Boros Fury-Shield, which also allows damage redirection but limits it to a single creature and requires a mana payment equal to the creature’s power. However, Deflecting Palm covers any source of damage and does not require additional mana to handle larger threats.

Another comparable card is Comeuppance, which counters damage from a wider range of sources on the same turn and deals it back to the source creature or the opponent. While Comeuppance provides broad protection, Deflecting Palm has the advantage of being lower costed, thus enabling quicker responses. Similarly, Reflect Damage mirrors the principle but at a higher mana cost and the damage redirected is limited to combat damage only. This makes Deflecting Palm favorable for its versatility and efficiency.

Considering these comparisons, Deflecting Palm proves to be a formidable option within the arsenal of redirection spells in Magic: The Gathering, with its straightforward mana cost and broad range of defensively offensive capabilities.

Boros Fury-Shield - MTG Card versions
Comeuppance - MTG Card versions
Reflect Damage - MTG Card versions
Boros Fury-Shield - MTG Card versions
Comeuppance - MTG Card versions
Reflect Damage - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Deflecting Palm by color, type and mana cost

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Captain's Maneuver - MTG Card versions
Lightning Helix - MTG Card versions
Flamescroll Celebrant // Revel in Silence - MTG Card versions
Lantern Flare - MTG Card versions
Boros Charm - MTG Card versions
Double Cleave - MTG Card versions
Fight to the Death - MTG Card versions
Burning Oil - MTG Card versions
Shattering Blow - MTG Card versions
Aurelia's Fury - MTG Card versions
Martial Glory - MTG Card versions
Ride Down - MTG Card versions
Justice Strike - MTG Card versions
Sacred Fire - MTG Card versions
Heartflame Duelist // Heartflame Slash - MTG Card versions
Inventory Management - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

MTG decks using Deflecting Palm. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Boros BurnBoros Burn ModernBoros BurnModern Challenge 64 2023-12-31

Card Pros

Card Advantage: While Deflecting Palm does not provide direct card drawing capabilities, its utility lies in potentially negating high-damage threats. This can often result in a card advantage as the effect is akin to removing an opponent’s creature or direct damage without spending another card.

Resource Acceleration: Deflecting Palm does not directly offer resource acceleration, but its low casting cost allows you to effectively manage your resources. By redirecting damage, you potentially save on the mana or cards you’d otherwise use to handle threatening attackers or spells.

Instant Speed: Deflecting Palm’s instant speed gives it a significant strategic edge. It can surprise an opponent who might be committing to a big attacking creature or a significant spell, effectively turning a game around in a single moment—all while keeping mana available for other interactions on the opponent’s turn.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Unlike other reactive spells, Deflecting Palm doesn’t force a discard, allowing you to maintain hand advantage.

Specific Mana Cost: Deflecting Palm’s demands for both red and white mana make it a challenging fit for decks that aren’t tailored to a Boros (red/white) strategy. This rigid cost can hinder deck flexibility and restrict its usage to specific archetypes.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost of two mana (one red and one white), some might argue that Deflecting Palm can be a bit pricey for its effect. Considering there are various low-cost spells that provide similar, if not better, protection or redirection effects, the mana investment might not always align with the expected payoff in fast-paced games.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Deflecting Palm offers a unique form of protection and surprise factor that can turn the tide of a game. Its ability to redirect damage from any source, not just creatures, makes it extremely flexible in a wide array of matchups.

Combo Potential: This card shines in strategies that look to manipulate damage, working well with effects that increase damage taken or with cards that allow you to selectively protect your life total while setting up for a game-winning counterstrike.

Meta-Relevance: In a game state where high-power creatures and direct damage spells are prevalent, Deflecting Palm becomes an optimal choice. It’s especially useful in a meta filled with aggressive decks, serving as both a defensive mechanism and a potential finisher.


How to beat Deflecting Palm

Deflecting Palm is an intriguing card that redirects the damage from a source the player chooses to an opponent or an opposing creature. This versatile card can often be a game-changer in Magic: The Gathering, turning certain defeat into victory by catching opponents off guard. However, it’s not invincible and can be outmaneuvered with smart play.

To effectively beat Deflecting Palm, timing is essential. Since it’s an instant, you must anticipate the crucial moment your opponent might cast it, typically when you declare a large or potentially game-ending attack. One strategy is to bait out Deflecting Palm with a less critical attack, luring your opponent into using it prematurely. Additionally, having counter spells ready can neutralize Deflecting Palm as it’s cast, ensuring your attack goes through unimpeded.

Moreover, spreading out your damage, rather than relying on one massive swing, can diminish the impact of Deflecting Palm. Hexproof and shroud abilities on your creatures also prevent Deflecting Palm from targeting them, as it requires a legal target. Understanding these strategies and maintaining patience during the heat of battle can help you sideline this deflective tactic and steer the game back into your favor.


BurnMana Recommendations

Deflecting Palm is a game-changer in MTG with its instant speed surprise factor and ability to turn potential defeat into victory. Its versatility against various damage sources makes it a worthy addition to your collection. If you’re intrigued by the strategic depth this card brings to the table or looking to outmaneuver opponents in high-stakes matches, mastering Deflecting Palm’s timing and placement is crucial. Enhance your gameplay and decision-making skills by integrating it into your deck. Dive deeper into the realm of MTG, explore strategic card synergies, and embrace new tactics. Ready to advance your MTG journey? Join us to uncover the full potential of Deflecting Palm and other impactful cards.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Deflecting Palm MTG card by a specific set like Khans of Tarkir and Khans of Tarkir Promos, there are several reliable options to consider. One of the primary sources is your local game store, where you can often find booster packs, individual cards, and preconstructed decks from current and some past sets. They often offer the added benefit of a community where you can trade with other players.

For a broader inventory, particularly of older sets, online marketplaces like TCGPlayer, Card Kingdom and Card Market offer extensive selections and allow you to search for cards from specific sets. Larger e-commerce platforms like eBay and Amazon also have listings from various sellers, which can be a good place to look for sealed product and rare finds.

Additionally, Magic’s official site often has a store locator and retailer lists for finding Wizards of the Coast licensed products. Remember to check for authenticity and the condition of the cards when purchasing, especially from individual sellers on larger marketplaces.

Below is a list of some store websites where you can buy the Deflecting Palm and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Deflecting Palm Magic the Gathering card was released in 4 different sets between 2014-09-26 and 2024-02-09. Illustrated by Eric Deschamps.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12014-09-26Khans of TarkirKTK 1732015NormalBlackEric Deschamps
22014-09-26Khans of Tarkir PromosPKTK 173s2015NormalBlackEric Deschamps
32020-11-20Commander LegendsCMR 4442015NormalBlackEric Deschamps
42024-02-09Murders at Karlov Manor CommanderMKC 2052015NormalBlackEric Deschamps

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Deflecting Palm has restrictions

FormatLegality
HistoricbrawlLegal
CommanderLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
ExplorerLegal
GladiatorLegal
PioneerLegal
TimelessLegal

Rules and information

The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Deflecting Palm card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.

Date Text
2014-09-20 Deflecting Palm doesn't target any permanent or player. You choose a source of damage as Deflecting Palm resolves.
2014-09-20 If multiple prevention and/or replacement effects are trying to apply to the same damage, the player who would be dealt damage chooses the order in which to apply them.