Matvei Michkov’s first game since trade speculation erupted brings him to Edmonton on Wednesday, where a familiar face offers another reason for Oilers fans to wonder about the possibilities.
Vasily Podkolzin has already welcomed Michkov off the ice. Whether that relationship could eventually extend to Edmonton’s dressing room is a much bigger question.
ESPN’s Kevin Weekes reported Tuesday that Michkov would likely prefer a fresh start. However, Emily Kaplan subsequently reported that Philadelphia has received no formal request and has no intention of trading him. Edmonton is a hypothetical destination, with no verified report establishing discussions between the teams.
Podkolzin Offers a Familiar Connection
When Philadelphia visited Edmonton in October 2024, Podkolzin hosted Michkov, Ivan Fedotov and Egor Zamula for Thanksgiving dinner. Michkov was beginning his NHL career, and Podkolzin provided a welcoming connection away from the rink.
Their relationship also includes offseason work. In July 2026, they trained together in Russia under Dmitry Yashankin alongside several other Russian NHL players.
Another get-together during this visit would hardly be surprising, although none has been publicly confirmed. It is equally tempting to imagine Edmonton entering their conversations, particularly with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl offering attractive potential linemates. Whether they have discussed Michkov joining the Oilers remains private and unverified. Still, having someone he knows in Edmonton could help Michkov feel comfortable if the possibility ever became serious.
Savoie Would Make the Conversation Difficult
Michkov would give Edmonton a young scoring winger capable of growing alongside its established stars. At 21, he already has consecutive 20-goal seasons and entered Wednesday with 10 goals through 20 games. Philadelphia would be surrendering a significant piece of its future.
A hypothetical opening framework could look like this:
Oilers receive: Matvei Michkov
Flyers receive: Matt Savoie, a future first-round pick and an additional prospect or draft pick.
That is a discussion starter, rather than an established asking price or guaranteed winning bid. Savoie’s ability to play centre strengthens his appeal, particularly because Kaplan identified that position as Philadelphia’s biggest organizational need. However, positional versatility alone does not establish him as the long-term top-six centre the Flyers would want back.
For Edmonton, that same versatility makes him difficult to surrender. Trading Savoie would sacrifice an affordable young forward who can address multiple lineup needs.
Howard Would Be Easier to Offer
Isaac Howard would presumably be Edmonton’s preferred centrepiece, allowing the Oilers to retain Savoie while offering Philadelphia offensive upside. The problem is competition. A Howard-led package would ask Philadelphia to exchange an established young NHL scorer for a less proven winger and future assets. Teams offering stronger centre prospects or higher projected draft picks could have the advantage.
Michkov’s entry-level contract expires this summer, making his next deal another major consideration. Edmonton would need a sustainable financial plan beyond the initial acquisition. Podkolzin provides a personal connection. Acquiring Michkov would require convincing Philadelphia that Edmonton also offers the strongest hockey return.
Next: Wild Confirm Surprise Decision as They Roll Dice With Quinn Hughes
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