Trade rumours surrounding Philadelphia Flyers forward Matvei Michkov have taken a rather absurd turn, with speculation suggesting the 21-year-old has already been traded or could be on his way out of Philadelphia. The evidence behind these claims? Michkov made his Instagram account private, removed his posts and no longer has a biography displayed on his profile.
While the timing has raised eyebrows, there is no credible evidence that Michkov has been traded, nor is there any confirmed indication that the Flyers are preparing to move him. For now, the entire situation appears to be speculation driven largely by social media activity.
How Michkov’s Instagram Sparked Trade Rumours
HockeyFeed reported that rumours were circulating about Michkov potentially being traded following changes to his Instagram account. The report referenced Philadelphia hockey personality Paul Jackson, who highlighted the social media changes alongside comments from an individual claiming to have connections to players.
The Nasty Knuckles podcast also discussed the situation, further fueling speculation among Flyers fans. However, none of this confirms that a trade has happened. Players regularly make changes to their social media accounts for personal reasons. Whether Michkov wants more privacy, is taking a break from social media or simply decided to remove his previous content remains unknown.
Suggesting that these changes mean a blockbuster trade has already been completed is a significant leap without credible reporting to support it.
Flyers’ Struggles Adding Fuel to Speculation
The rumours have gained traction partly because of Philadelphia’s disappointing start to the 2026-27 season. The Flyers are winless through seven games with an 0-5-2 record, and questions surrounding Michkov’s relationship with head coach Rick Tocchet have continued. Michkov’s ice time has also become a talking point. After averaging 16:41 of ice time during his rookie season, Michkov has seen his role diminish, playing just 12:54 in the Flyers’ most recent game against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Tocchet previously questioned Michkov’s conditioning, adding to concerns about how the organization is handling one of its most promising young players. Still, frustration over playing time and a struggling team does not automatically mean a trade is coming. The Flyers selected Michkov seventh overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, and he remains one of their most talented young forwards. Trading him at just 21 years old would be a significant organizational decision, not something that should be assumed because of an Instagram change.
No Credible Confirmation of a Michkov Trade
Despite the growing attention, no established NHL insider has confirmed that Michkov has been traded or that a deal is imminent. In fact, Flyers general manager Daniel Briere previously pushed back against speculation surrounding Michkov’s future, making it even more important to distinguish legitimate reporting from online theories. Could Philadelphia eventually consider trading Michkov? Any player could theoretically become available under the right circumstances. However, there is currently no verified evidence suggesting such a move is underway.
Until credible information emerges, there is little reason to treat this as anything more than an unsubstantiated rumour. Michkov making his Instagram private might be unusual, but it certainly isn’t proof that he’s leaving Philadelphia. Sometimes, an Instagram change is just an Instagram change.
Next: Flyers Growing Frustrated With Travis Konecny, Could Consider a Trade
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