Can Deflecting Swat target an ability that has no Target?

Asked by Brimstone 3 years ago

I have Niv-Mizzet, Parun in play with Curiosity enchanting it, and I have Deflecting Swat in my hand. If my opponent attacks me with a Scion of the Ur-Dragon and uses it's tutor ability, can I target that ability with Deflecting Swat (not to redirect the ability, but just to trigger the card draw on Niv-Mizzet) or am I not allowed to cast it because Scion's ability doesn't target anything.

Polaris says... Accepted answer #1

The only requirement for casting Deflecting Swat is that there be a spell or ability on the stack to target. That spell/ability does not need to have targets of its own, so the move you're thinking of is valid. Deflecting Swat can be cast in this situation, even though the resolution won't have any effect.

March 2, 2021 1:52 a.m.