More trade buzz is building, this time around Philadelphia Flyers forward Matvei Michkov. At this point in time, reports are conflicting. One report from ESPN said that Michkov was open to a fresh start, while a recent report from The Athletic said that no trade request as been made.
In the event that more traction on a trade transpires, the Montreal Canadiens need to be ready with the right deal that could add offensive depth. Sitting at second place in the Atlantic Division and sixth in goals scored in the Eastern Conference, Michkov would make for a nice addition to a team pushing for a Stanley Cup.
Knowing they had the chance to draft him in 2023 and ultimately chose David Reinbacher, it would make for a nice twist if they found a way to land him anyway. The real question is what type of deal it
would take.
Building a trade package for Michkov
There are a few things to consider with Michkov.
First, we'll start with his performance. Over the last two seasons, he's averaged 23 goals and 57 points. This year, he's on pace for a breakout season with 10 goals and 14 points across 20 games. This translates to 42 goals and 70 points over 84 games played.
That's going to likely boost his trade stock.
Other factors include his age, he's 22, and his control. While his entry-level contract is ending, he's only a restricted free agent. Unless he's offer-sheeted and the team who has his rights lets him leave, he's only able to sign with the team he's with at the end of this season.
That will also play a role in his value.
Don't expect some insane splash though. NHL teams have a tendency to overpay for players who aren't as good as a player like Michkov, but there's a limit. For example, Connor Hellebuck required a mix of four players and two draft picks. That's haul for a three-time Vezina winner with a Hart to go along with it.
He's also not as well established as a forward, such as Dylan Larkin, so is perpertually on the trade block. A team will have to pay, but it won't be anything crazy.
If the Canadiens have to hand over a first-round pick, so be it. A player to go along with it would be fair as well. The Flyers would likely want someone who is essentially NHL-ready. Owen Beck fits that bill.
Knowing there are other exciting prospects coming up the pipeline, such as Luke Mittelstadt and Michael Hage, they can afford to part with one young forward along with a first-round pick.
Again, while traction has to pick up on the Flyers actually trading Michkov, it seems like a fair trade package for a young, established player who would still come with contract, even if he needs a new contract, after this season.
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