NHL.com will provide in-depth roster, prospect and fantasy player analysis for each of its 32 teams from August 1 to September 1. Today, the Philadelphia Flyers face three important questions.
1. What are realistic expectations for Matvei Michkov?
The 19-year-old forward comes with a remarkable level of hype and an offensive skillset that sets him apart from the rest of the roster, but the Flyers are doing their best to manage expectations.
“This year he can come here and experience what it’s like to play at this level and adjust,” general manager Daniel Briere said. “Honestly, I don’t have a lot of expectations for him. I expect more from our other guys who have been here for a couple of years to take a step forward.”
Michkov said he is ready to experience life in the NHL on and off the ice and has a goal in mind.
“The first plan is for the team to reach the (Stanley Cup) playoffs,” he said through an interpreter. “Help the team win night after night so the fans can come and enjoy the games even more.”
Michkov was already working toward that goal on the ice one day after arriving in Philadelphia from Russia in late July, and his initiative impressed the Flyers’ management.
“He wanted to come here early and adjust and try to put himself in the best position possible to tackle the year,” Briere said. “There’s a lot coming from him, too. He wants it and he’s willing to put himself in those positions to be successful. I give him a lot of credit, too, for being willing to put himself in the best position possible.”
