Matvei Michkov to Chicago for two former first-round picks after trade request in blockbuster proposal
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
A proposed swap sends Michkov to Chicago for Levshunov and Boisvert. The Flyers say they have no plan to trade him, so who actually says no?
A proposed swap would send Matvei Michkov to the Chicago Blackhawks for Artyom Levshunov and Sacha Boisvert, and it lands just as trade chatter around the Flyers winger is heating up.
A report Tuesday said Michkov would likely welcome a fresh start.
A Flyers source said no formal request exists, and general manager Daniel Briere said the team has no plan to trade him.
For now, this idea is hypothetical, not a negotiation.
Why Philadelphia Walks Away
Michkov leads the Flyers with 10 goals and 14 points after arriving at camp 29 pounds lighter.
At 21, he has 56 goals and 128 points in 181 NHL games.
Moving the offense's driving force for prospects would stall a rebuild that needs proven scorers.
He is a restricted free agent after this season and becomes offer-sheet eligible on July 1 if he has not signed an extension.
His next contract is the real storyline, and it gives Chicago a reason to ask questions now.
Why Chicago Might Balk
Levshunov, the second overall pick in 2024, has looked more comfortable this season on a $975,000 entry-level deal through 2026-27.
Boisvert, taken 18th that year, carries a $974,167 hit through 2027-28.
Together they cost under $2 million, while Michkov's next deal will likely cost far more.
The Blackhawks went 29-39-14 last season and need scoring, but surrendering a young defenseman and a first-round forward for a winger with an open contract is a steep ask.
Both sides likely say no today, and Philadelphia says it first.
The Flyers hold the leverage while their public stance holds firm.
A formal request would change the market, and the price would likely climb past two former first-round picks.
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