The Philadelphia Flyers know what they have in Matvei Michkov. Even in the midst of his sophomore struggles, there is no doubt in the front office that he is still destined to be a star in the NHL.
When Michkov debuted last season, it was two years earlier than the Flyers anticipated. Originally, he was not expected in Philadelphia until the 2026-27 season due to his KHL contract.
The original plan for Michkov was to develop in the KHL and step in at full speed after his contract expired.
Instead, it has been the Flyers responsibility to develop the young Russian in NHL. Which certainly has had its ups and downs over the past two seasons.
Michkov learned a lot last season in his only season with John Tortorella. One of the most important things about how to respect the leadership in the NHL.
Tortorella and Michkov butted heads a lot. But, as the former coach mentioned multiple times, it was a healthy give and take between him and Michkov.
This season, under new head coach Rick Tocchet, the Flyers have had to take a different approach.
Tocchet has had to protect the second year pro a lot this season. It has been a little bit of a rough road due to Michkov not coming into training camp in the best of shape.
This has lead the Flyers to start to shift the direction they are taking with Michkov a little.
Before Artemi Panarin was dealt to the LA Kings, the Flyers showed real interest in acquiring the Russian star. Something that led to many asking the question why?
According to two sources, the reason why was because the Flyers are looking for a mentor for Michkov. One in particular that is Russian.
The thinking behind this is so Michkov can learn from a player that has done it already. Someone who can show him the way and make him feel more comfortable as a young Russian in the league.
Andrei Kuzmenko was acquired at the trade deadline last season. However, that experiment only lasted seven games before he was traded for a future asset.
Kirill Kaprizov’s name was also heavily mentioned as a Flyers target before signing a long-term extension in Minnesota.
With what happened last offseason, the Flyers know they can’t let that happen again.
Michkov himself even admitted that cannot and will not happen again. It is also a reason why he is planning on staying in Voorhees this summer to train under the eye of the Flyers.
Whether or not the Flyers can find the right mentor remains to be seen. But the next time you hear a Russian on the market, don’t be surprised to see the Flyers interested.
