Flyers top prospect Matvei Michkov is reportedly being bought out of his KHL contract to pursue a career in the NHL. SKA Saint Petersburg, Michkov’s current club, that they were going to buy out the contract of the 19-year-old forward. Michkov was the consensus number two prospect in the 2023 NHL draft behind number one overall selection, Connor Bedard. However, he dropped to Philadelphia at seven due to concerns of when he would be able to come to North America. Well now the time has come, looking like the Flyers got an absolute steal of a draft pick, and a potential superstar.
How Does This Effect The Flyers?
After falling short of the playoffs last season, the Flyers showed real improvement from the season before. Matvei Michkov should be one of the key pieces to them moving forward. Michkov is the biggest name to come to Philadelphia as a rookie since Eric Lindros. He went on to be one of the best player in the organization’s history. Also, he eventually got into the Hockey Hall Of Fame.
Fans have a lot to look forward with this Flyers prospect. Fans are excited as Michkov has given them a sense of hope for what is to come. Although he is under contract with Saint Petersburg, he was loaned to HC Sochi. He went to play in 48 total games in the KHL this season. One was with Saint Petersburg, 47 with Sochi) tallying 41 points (19g, 22a). This near point-per-game production is expected to translate very well to the NHL.
Where He Fits in Flyers Lineup
Flyers prospect Michkov will not have an issue finding a spot in the lineup. Upon his arrival, Philly will more than likely insert him high up in their lineup. His initial spot in the lineup has two heavy deciding factors influencing it. First, his spot depends on what happens with Travis Konecny, and if Konecny stays. The duo playing on the same line will be lethal.
How It Can Work
Konecny is the first option at right wing (Michkovs Position). There is a chance of a potential trade this offseason. However, if he isn’t on the move, there’s a possibility the two will be together as wingers on that first line. It isn’t the biggest obstacle for a winger to switch side, and the Flyers would definitely benefit having their two top forwards on the same line. This may not work out if one of them isn’t able to comfortably translate to the left side. Although they lack depth at the centre position, if these two were able paired together, it would give the Flyers top line a feel of a true first line, which has been missing since Giroux’s departure.
This idea of a true first line would be achieved due to the fact that they have two players who have the ability to produce at a high rate, which again, they haven’t seen in some years. This news brings new hope to Philadelphia, as the Flyers fans, and organization as a whole, are looking to Michkov to be their star of the future.
Main Photo: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
