Report: Michkov ‘Likely’ Wants Fresh Start Away From Flyers

The Philadelphia Flyers could have another Cutter Gauthier situation on their hands. Or, Gauthier-adjacent, anyway. Per ESPN’s Kevin Weekes, young Flyers star Matvei Michkov would “likely want a new start elsewhere.” **Breaking News** 🚨 📰 From multiple league sources, with the Flyers unimpressive start and internal turmoil, Michkov would likely want a new start elsewhere. He's in the last year of his contract & is a prime trade candidate moving forward. #HockeyXpic.twitter.com/4mYzKiN42G— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) November 10, 2026Weekes said league sources cited the Flyers’ “unimpressive start” to the season, as well as “internal turmoil,” as the reason why he could want out of Philadelphia. Michkov was selected 7th overall by the Flyers in 2023 and has been seen as a key and critical part of the team’s rebuild since he was selected. During the team’s 3-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks, Michkov and teammate Nick Seeler made headlines after a heated exchange was caught by the NBC Sports Philadelphia broadcast cameras. That was not the first time Michkov or his teammates were caught showing some frustration. Whether it was seemingly pointed comments or quotes given by leadership or coaching staff, or even what can be seen from the bench, there have been a lot of assumptions made about Michkov and his relationships in Philly. Michkov oftentimes falls victim to a shortened bench, playing middle-six ice time, and sometimes worse, despite being the team’s leading goal scorer. The Flyers are 20 games in on the 2026-27 season and have an uninspiring record of 5-10-5. For a team that’s rebuilding through the draft, that’s expected. The Flyers are coming off a postseason appearance in 2025-26, so the poor record is disappointing. A team source has told Philly Hockey Now that the team is unaware of any such trade request by Michkov. From a #Flyers source, the team HAS NOT heard from Matvei Michkov or his camp that the player would want a new start elsewhere.— Will James (@wmjsports) November 10, 2026That is not to refute the Weekes report. When something of this magnitude gets to a reporter as well connected as Weekes, there tends to be some truth. Rather, it’s to indicate that this is very much a fresh claim. The situation could become salvageable. Michkov is in the final year of his entry-level contract. He has 10 goals (team lead and T13th in the league) and 14 points (T1st on team) this season. If he does, in fact, follow through with the trade request, GM Danny Briere will have a very busy phone line. An update will be given when one is provided by the Flyers. Read More: Are the Flyers and Blackhawks Perfect Trade Partners?Read more at Philly Hockey Now