Key Takeaways
- “One season was enough,” Michkov said of his lacrosse goal attempts after failing to score with the move.
- With new additions like Zegras and Vladar, Michkov believes the Flyers are finally ready to compete.
- After a 26-goal rookie season, he’s focused on one thing: “It’s time to change that. I want to grow… as a team.”
Matvei Michkov #39 of the Philadelphia Flyers (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Matvei Michkov’s first season with the Philadelphia Flyers was anything but quiet. The 20-year-old winger made a strong debut in the NHL, finishing the year with 26 goals and 37 assists for 63 points in 80 games. He led all NHL rookies in goals and overtime goals (3), and tied for second in total points.
Michkov’s first NHL coach was John Tortorella—a unique and sometimes challenging experience in itself.
Still, the season didn’t meet his main goal: making the playoffs. For Michkov, that’s the most important measure of success. In a recent interview with RG Media, he said he now values team results above all else.
That’s why he’s encouraged by Philadelphia’s active offseason. The Flyers signed goaltender Dan Vladar, forwards Christian Dvorak and Lane Pederson, and defenseman Noah Juulsen. They also made a big move by acquiring Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks.
“I like the direction the team is going,” Michkov told RG Media this week. “You can see that everyone wants to make the playoffs and is doing what it takes. I’ve played two seasons in Sochi and now one in Philly, and I still haven’t played a single playoff game. It’s time to change that. I want to grow not just as an individual, but most of all as a team.”
Earlier in the season, Michkov made several attempts at lacrosse-style goals, but none found the net. Fans are now joking that with Zegras joining the Flyers, the team has two lacrosse artists. But Michkov says he’s ready to take a break from the flashy move.
“One season was enough for me. I didn’t score once with it, so for now, I’ll leave it aside,” he said.
“I wouldn’t say whether it’s welcome in the NHL or not—that’s not what matters to me. If you score, it’s welcome. If you don’t, it can be seen in different ways.”
Michkov is currently spending his summer in Russia. He spent some time in Perm and is now in Moscow, where he’s taking part in local hockey tournaments.
While hanging around with his family this summer, the young russian forward had a timely encounter with a bear that made the rounds on social media.
“We were at the family cottage, just relaxing,” Michkov said, describing the scene. “Suddenly, we saw a bear crawling out from behind the garage. We were all kind of shocked—but also excited. We didn’t know what to do, so we ran inside. Then he swam across the lake and we ran out to the pier to film it.”
As for Maxim Shabanov signing with the New York Islanders instead of the Flyers, Michkov stayed neutral. When Shabanov was deciding where to sign, Michkov followed him on Instagram—but it wasn’t based on any insider info.
“I didn’t know if he’d end up in Philly or not,” Michkov said. “I just followed him because he’s a great guy and had a strong season. I wish him all the best with the Islanders. I’m sure he’ll do great in the NHL.”
