Philadelphia Flyers fans got a glimpse of Matvei Michkov on the ice at the Flyers Training Center as he continues his adjustment to the U.S. and prepares for the team's upcoming preseason schedule.
Michkov appeared to be practicing with teammate and fellow Russian Egor Zamula, along with Flyers consultant Slava Kuznetsov, who has been acting as Michkov's interpreter during press obligations.
The 19-year-old made waves in Philadelphia after he finally arrived in the U.S., marking the conclusion of a dramatic saga that saw Michkov making the move from the KHL to the NHL two years earlier than initially expected.
KHL contract obligations and geopolitical tensions made timelines for Russian prospects to come to the NHL murky and drawn-out—something that is considered a main factor in Michkov falling to the Flyers at seventh overall in the 2023 NHL Draft when he had consistently been lauded as having talent that rivaled that year's first overall pick Connor Bedard.
Flyers GM Danny Briere remained coy when asked about the progression of Michkov's timeline during the 2023-24 season, but maintained that the organization was ready to bring him aboard the minute the opportunity arose.
Michkov is expected to fully participate in the Flyers' preseason schedule before making his highly-anticipated NHL debut for the 2024-25 season.
