Leafs Enter Seller Territory-Could Matvei Michkov Be a Fit in Toronto’s Future?
For the first time in the Auston Matthews era, the Toronto Maple Leafs are staring down the real possibility of becoming sellers at the trade deadline. With March 6 looming, the front office is beginning to face the music: this might not be the year, and that means it’s time to think about the future.
But this isn’t about a full teardown. It’s about a fast retool - one that involves more than just stacking draft picks.
Toronto is reportedly eyeing young NHL-ready talent who can contribute now and grow with the core moving forward. That’s a tough needle to thread, especially in a league where teams don’t often part with young, high-ceiling players.
Still, one name has emerged from the rumor mill that’s turning heads: Matvei Michkov.
Yes, that Matvei Michkov - the seventh-overall pick from the 2023 draft, currently in his second season with the Philadelphia Flyers. The 21-year-old winger has had a rocky sophomore campaign, and his situation in Philly is raising eyebrows around the league.
On Saturday, he logged just 10:21 of ice time in an overtime loss to the Kings - his lowest total of the season. That performance sparked speculation that the Leafs might want to make a move.
Michkov’s raw talent isn’t in question. After a standout rookie year where he put up 63 points (26 goals, 37 assists), expectations were sky-high heading into 2025-26.
But things haven’t gone according to script. Through 53 games, he’s managed 28 points (13 goals, 15 assists), and his minutes have been inconsistent.
That drop-off, combined with his recent benching, has led to questions about his fit in Philly - and whether a change of scenery might unlock his potential.
Flyers head coach Rick Tocchet didn’t mince words when asked about Michkov’s reduced role. “So you think he should get it because he’s earned it?”
Tocchet said, pushing back on the idea that talent alone guarantees ice time. “Matvei did not come into camp in shape, and it’s hard to play yourself into shape.
He’s having a tough time in those situations - one-on-one, off the rush.”
Tocchet went on to emphasize the importance of professionalism and preparation, pointing to practice habits, punctuality, and nutrition as areas where Michkov needs to improve. “You don’t become a star overnight,” he added. “The crest supersedes everything, not the individuals.”
It’s a candid assessment, and one that suggests the Flyers are trying to mold Michkov into a complete pro - not just a highlight-reel scorer. But it also raises questions about where things stand between the player and the organization. Conditioning issues this deep into the season are a red flag, especially for a player expected to be a franchise cornerstone.
Still, it’s hard to imagine Philadelphia moving on from a talent like Michkov just two years into his NHL career. The Flyers haven’t exactly been overflowing with elite offensive talent in recent years, and Michkov’s ceiling remains sky-high. The focus now has to be on development - giving him the tools, support, and opportunity to grow into the player they drafted him to be.
That said, this is a situation worth keeping an eye on. If the friction continues - and if Michkov’s role doesn’t expand - things could get complicated as he approaches restricted free agency. For teams like the Maple Leafs, who are looking to retool on the fly and inject some youth into the lineup, it’s the kind of scenario that demands attention.
Toronto’s path forward isn’t about blowing it up - it’s about being smart, opportunistic, and bold when the right player becomes available. If the Leafs believe Michkov is that player, and if the Flyers are willing to listen, don’t be surprised if the phone lines heat up before the deadline.