The Philadelphia Flyers and their fans are happy Matvei Michkov is with the club, entering his sophomore season after an impressive (but somehow not Calder Tropy-nominated) rookie year. Given how it could’ve played out, Michkov would have another year left on his KHL contract, and the team would be counting the days until the 2026-27 season began with the Mad Russian in the lineup. But he’s here, and that’s reason for celebrating.
The Philadelphia Flyers have long been in the midst of a rebuilding phase, but with the arrival of Russian phenom Matvei Michkov, the team may be poised to shift their trajectory. As one of the most highly touted young prospects in recent years, Michkov has the potential to become not just a franchise player but a game-changer in the Flyers' roster. But with his potential, comes the looming question: should Michkov become the first $10M AAV Flyer?
Matvei Michkov, widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2023 NHL Draft, has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s brightest stars. His offensive upside is undeniable—his skating is electric, his vision exceptional, and his goal-scoring ability is among the best of any player his age. At just 18 years old, Michkov already possesses an arsenal of skills that could make him one of the most dynamic forwards in the league once he hits his prime.
The $10M annual average value (AAV) contract is typically reserved for the league's elite talents, those who can consistently produce at a point-per-game pace and lead their teams to championships. The Flyers, however, are in a unique position. They are in the midst of rebuilding, and while Michkov is still developing, his potential to elevate the Flyers’ offense cannot be ignored. The argument for giving him a $10M AAV, even as a young player with limited NHL experience, stems from his potential to be a game-changing talent. Signing him to a long-term, high-value contract would not only reward his future contributions but also send a strong message to the fanbase that the Flyers are serious about their rebuild and their desire to be competitive again.
However, there are risks. Paying Michkov such a substantial salary before he’s even played a full season in the NHL would be a gamble. The Flyers would have to ensure that Michkov's development continues at the expected pace and that he can translate his success in the Russian league to North America’s NHL. The pressure of such a hefty contract could also hinder his growth if expectations become too high, too soon.
Ultimately, while the Flyers are not in a rush to contend, it’s clear that Michkov represents a rare opportunity for the team. He has the potential to lead their new era of hockey. But whether the Flyers should invest heavily in him right away remains a delicate decision—one that may hinge on his immediate performance once he takes the ice.
